The Basics Of Virtue Ethics

Next, there is the matter of human purpose to consider. Aristotle believed that the human ability for reason was a precious gift, and that it was vital we use what he considered as a ‘gift from God’ in independent thought in order to attain eudemonia. In the same way a cup is specifically designed to hold water which is its purpose, humans were designed to think independently. Many of his critics, however, protest that just because mankind is capable of something, does not necessarily mean it is moral for us to do so. For example, an individual is capable of endless atrocities such as rape, murder and senseless cruelty.  Just because we are capable of these things, does not mean that we should act upon that capability, or that it is our purpose. Like a tree, which can be used as habitation, for shelter, for firewood or to bear fruit, the human being is multi-functional. The tree can fall, but that is in fact contrary to its purpose.

However, this seems to be something of a manipulation of Aristotle’s point. He never claimed that all of what mankind is capable of is moral, but rather that we have a duty and natural drive to fulfil our given potential. Additionally, while it would be senseless to have purpose such as to inflict pain and suffering as a race, it seems perfectly logical and in keeping with the nature of God that our purpose would be to evolve as people and become more virtuous. It could be argued that it was to this end God bestowed free will upon mankind, and to this end that we bear a conscience and are capable of feeling guilt for our negative actions.

Finally, there is the criticism that Aristotle’s moral virtues are unrealistic. After all, can any of us claim to demonstrate all his moral virtues, every day of our lives? Setting such idealistic goals, which cannot be absolutely achieved, breeds a sense of disappointment and despondency at our failure, and result in individuals surrendering to an immoral life on the basis of never being able to become totally virtuous.

However, Aristotle would no doubt argue that the goal was not impossible. He may well have admitted that it was extremely difficult to attain in one lifetime, but perhaps that is the beauty of Aristotle’s moral virtues: that they remain unattainable and always a little out of reach and that that constantly encourages us to strive to be better individuals, and sets no limit to the virtue we can attain, always leaving room for another mile of our personal evolution.