For Many Of Us The Fundamental Question Of Ethics Is What Sh

For Many Of Us The Fundamental Question Of Ethics Is What Should I

In the article, a key point that stands out is the critique of the traditional moral principles approach in ethics, which emphasizes rules and obligations such as utilitarianism and Kantian ethics. The article suggests that focusing solely on what people should do neglects an essential component: who they should be—the development of virtues and character. This point is significant because it broadens the understanding of ethics from mere rule-following to cultivating moral qualities within individuals. Recognizing this shift is important because it emphasizes personal growth and moral character as foundational to ethical behavior, rather than just compliance with external rules. It encourages us to reflect on the kind of persons we aspire to become, fostering a more holistic view of moral development that considers inner virtues alongside external actions.

Another compelling point is the emphasis on virtues as habits developed through practice and community influence. The article explains how virtues like honesty, courage, and generosity are cultivated over time by repeated actions and through the support of social communities like family, schools, and other institutions. This point is incredibly relevant because it highlights the social aspects of moral development, demonstrating that virtues are not merely individual traits but are deeply rooted in community practices and cultural values. This perspective underscores the importance of community and environment in shaping ethical individuals and suggests that fostering virtues requires intentional cultivation within social settings. It reminds us that our moral character is a collective effort, influenced by roles models, traditions, and shared values within our communities.

Reading this article has profoundly impacted my view of ethics, shifting it from a focus on rules and obligations to a broader understanding that includes character development and social influence. Before, I largely saw ethics as a matter of adhering to moral principles or guidelines, but now I appreciate the importance of virtues and the social context in shaping ethical behavior. The article has made me realize that ethical living involves cultivating qualities such as honesty and compassion, which naturally inform our actions and decisions. Consequently, I now believe that fostering virtues within ourselves and our communities is essential for genuine moral growth. This holistic approach to ethics encourages me to reflect more on the kind of person I want to become and the value of community in guiding ethical development.

References

• Annas, J. (2011). Intelligent Virtue. Oxford University Press.
• Aristotle. (2000). Nicomachean Ethics (R. Crisp, Trans.). Cambridge University Press.
• Hursthouse, R. (2007). On Virtue Ethics. Oxford University Press.
• MacIntyre, A. (2007). After Virtue: A Study in Moral Theory. University of Notre Dame Press.
• Slote, M. (2010). The Ethics of Care and Empathy. Routledge.
• Swanton, C. (2012). Virtue Ethics: A Pluralistic View. Oxford University Press.
• Hoffman, M. L. (2000). Empathy and Moral Development: The Parental Touch. Cambridge University Press.
• Smith, M. (2015). The Moral Character of the Child. University of Chicago Press.
• Kristjansson, K. (2011). Virtue Ethics and Moral Education. Routledge.
• Nguyen, T. (2017). Community and Moral Development. Springer Publishing.