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PHL Notes Lecture 12
Philosophical Ethics (PHL 270)
Creighton University
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Philosophy Lecture Twelve: Normative Ethics – Pluralism (Contd.) and Virtue Ethics
Class Notes:
o Moral particularism – the right action depends entirely on the details of the situation. There are objective moral truths, but there are no fundamental rules or reasons o Problems for Ross’ PFD account and Particularism: ▪ Lack of guidance ▪ Disagreement o Special problem for particularism: ▪ Permanent moral importance? ▫ Moral regret? → Justice → Maleficence (harming) o Virtue ethics – an act is morally right just because it is one that a virtuous person would do in that situation o Utilitarianism/Kantianism ▪ Right action --> determines virtuous character o Virtue theory ▪ Virtuous character --> determines right action o Who is a virtuous person? ▪ Moral exemplars – people who are morally above everyone else ▫ Actual individuals who most people do or would regard as virtuous (moral role models) ▪ Those who have virtues and lack vices o Virtues: ▪ Courage ▪ Generosity ▪ Honesty ▪ Kindness ▪ Patience ▪ Empathy ▪ Gratitude o What is it to have a virtue? ▪ Moral wisdom ▫ Perception ▫ Experience ▫ Emotional maturity ▪ Character traits ▫ Not just one action, but a disposition to act ▫ Being a good person should be effortless --> should not have to think about it ▫ Not just a habit, but properly motivated o Problems for Virtue Ethics ▪ No moral guidance ▫ Should I lie to spare this person’s feelings?
▫ Is euthanasia morally permissible? ▪ Conflicting advice (contradiction) ▪ The priority problem o Euthyphro dilemma o Virtue Ethics dilemma
PHL Notes Lecture 12
Course: Philosophical Ethics (PHL 270)
University: Creighton University
