OUTLINE THE KEY IDEAS OF ARISTOTLE'S AND MORE MODERN VERSIONS OF VIRTUE ETHICS (18)

enables people to achieve their highest purpose: to be virtuous
based on the views of Greek philosopher Aristotle
all things and human beings have a purpose or function (telos)
a complete explanation of anything would include its final cause or purpose –this purpose is to realise its potential and to fulfil its goal
the ultimate goal is human flourishing – to achieve eudemonia
eudemonia is developing those characteristics best suited to a person becoming virtuous
it is not about what people do, but what kind of person they are
e.g. being kind leads to someone becoming a kind person
end or purpose of humanity is rational thought and the highest good is to be found in intellectual virtue.

Aristotle said that people must pursue moral virtues
e.g. courage, temperance, magnificence
these virtues were qualities that lead to a good life
people should cultivate these qualities to maximise their potential for a happy life
get satisfaction from doing the right thing because it is the right thing not for…

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