Aristotle's Virtue Ethics: Book 2

Flashcards covering key concepts from Aristotle's virtue ethics in Book 2, including eudaimonia, character vs. rules, the doctrine of the mean, and habit acquisition.

How is ethics defined in the transcript?

Ethics is defined as the study and pursuit of the good life.

What is the ultimate human telos according to Aristotle?

Eudaimonia, which translates more accurately as flourishing and excellence, though happiness is also used.

What is identified as the specific human function?

Reason or rationality.

Besides reason and virtue, what else does Aristotle claim is necessary to achieve eudaimonia?

External resources or external goods, such as food, shelter, and money.

How does Aristotle define virtue in a rational sense?

A rational state that allows for the fully harmonious development of human potential.

What is the distinction between a virtue and a vice?

A virtue is a morally positive character trait, while a vice is a morally negative character trait.

Why does Aristotle prioritize character development over moral rules?

Because if people become virtuous, they will automatically know what kind of rules to follow and be able to discern the truth about those rules.

Which aspects of eudaimonia and virtue are universal, and which are relative?

Seeking eudaimonia and developing virtue are universal to everyone, but what flourishing looks like and how an individual achieves virtue are relative to the person.

How does Aristotle define virtue in relation to vices?

Virtue exists as a mean or midpoint between two vices: the vice of excess (too much) and the vice of deficiency (too little).

Why does Aristotle compare becoming virtuous to hitting a bull's eye?

Because there are a million ways to go wrong around the midpoint, meaning virtuous actions must be performed perfectly.

According to Aristotle, are human beings born virtuous?

No, humans are not born virtuous.

What three steps are required to become a virtuous person?

A person must be taught what is virtuous, practice being virtuous over and over throughout life, and make virtue a habit so they act automatically.

What examples are used in the lecture to illustrate the need for daily practice to build habit?

LeBron James practicing daily to build muscle memory, concert musicians practicing daily to respond habitually without conscious thought, and military basic training drilling recruits to act bravely.

What happens if a person is never taught what is virtuous?

They will not be able to become virtuous, which means they cannot become excellent or achieve eudaimonia.