AHRONE A.

LATOZA BSCRIM 1-G

Learning Activity

GE 8-ETHICS

Part I

General Virtue Ethics

Answer comprehensively

1. What is virtue ethics, and how does it differ from other ethical theories such as
consequentialism and deontology?

 The virtue ethics asks what kind of person should one be in order to get it
right all the time. Whereas deontology and consequentialism are based on
rules that try to give us the right action, virtue ethics makes central use of
the concept of character. Consequentialism focuses on judging the moral
worth of the results of the actions and deontological ethics focuses on judging
the actions themselves.

2. How does virtue ethics approach the question of what is the good life, and what are
the implications of this approach?

 A virtue ethics approach takes a unique approach to defining the good life by
focusing on the development of moral character and virtues. According to
virtue ethics, living a good life involves cultivating virtuous traits such as
honesty, courage, compassion, and wisdom. The emphasis is on becoming a
virtuous person rather than following a set of rules or maximizing outcomes.
By prioritizing the development of virtuous character, virtue ethics
encourages individuals to strive for excellence in their actions and decisions.
It emphasizes the importance of personal growth, self-improvement, and
moral integrity in shaping one's life. It promotes a deeper understanding of
what it means to be a good person and encourages individuals to reflect on
their actions and motivations.

3. What are the key virtues that are central to virtue ethics, and how do they relate to
one another?

 The key virtues central to virtue ethics are courage, temperance and wisdom.
These virtues are interconnected and mutually reinforcing. For example,
courage often requires wisdom to assess risks and make informed decisions,
while temperance helps to temper impulsive actions that may compromise
one's moral character. By cultivating these virtues in harmony, individuals
can strive towards living a virtuous and morally upright life.

4. How does virtue ethics prioritize the development of moral character, and what are
the benefits and limitations of this approach?

 Virtue ethics prioritizes the development of moral character by focusing on

cultivating virtuous traits such as honesty, courage, and compassion. The
benefits of this approach include promoting long-term ethical behavior and
personal growth. However, a limitation is that it can be subjective and may
not provide clear guidelines for specific moral dilemmas. The emphasis on
character development and role of the emotions allows virtue ethics to have
plausible account of moral psychology, which lacking in deontology and
consequentialism. Virtue ethics can avoid the problematic concept of duty and
obligations in favor of the rich concept of virtue.

5. Can virtue ethics provide a comprehensive moral framework, or is it limited to specific

areas of moral decision-making?
  Virtue ethics can provide a comprehensive moral framework, as it focuses on
developing virtuous character traits in individuals to guide their actions and
decisions across various aspects of life. It emphasizes the importance of
cultivating virtues such as honesty, courage, and compassion, which can be
applied universally to different moral dilemmas and situations. Therefore,
virtue ethics is not limited to specific areas of moral decision-making but
offers a broad and holistic approach to ethical reasoning and behavior.

Aristotelian Virtue Ethics Questions

1. How does Aristotle’s concept of eudemonia relate to the concept of virtue ethics, and
what are the implications of this relationship?

 Aristotle's concept of eudemonia, often translated as "happiness" or

"flourishing," is central to his virtue ethics framework. It is meant to guide
one’s moral actions towards good actions which in turn improves human lives
and well-being. Both Aristotle’s ethical theory and his eudemonic theory posit
that virtues, morality and happiness stem from reason. In Aristotle's view,
eudemonia is the ultimate goal of human life, achieved through the
cultivation of virtues. The relationship between eudemonia and virtue ethics
lies in the idea that virtues are essential for achieving eudemonia.
Implications of this relationship include the emphasis on the importance of
moral character and ethical behavior in achieving true happiness. Aristotle's
concept of eudemonia underscores the intrinsic connection between virtue
ethics and the pursuit of a good life.

2. What are the key virtues that Aristotle identifies as essential for living a virtuous life,
and how do they relate to one another?

 Aristotle gives a rough general taxonomy identifies of moral virtues, dividing

them into those concerned with feelings or passion (courage and temperance)
that are essential for living a virtuous life. These virtues include courage,
temperance, wisdom, justice, and more. Each virtue plays a crucial role in
shaping an individual's character and guiding their actions towards moral
excellence. By cultivating these virtues and finding a balance between them,
individuals can strive towards moral excellence and lead a life that is in
harmony with their values and principles.

3. How does Aristotle’s concept of arete (excellence) relate to the concept of virtue
ethics, and what are the implications of this relationship?

 Aristotle famously defined virtue as excellence in his philosophy. Aristotle's

concept of arete, or excellence, is closely tied to virtue ethics. Arete refers to
the idea of achieving excellence in one's character and actions, which aligns
with the central focus of virtue ethics on developing moral virtues and living a
virtuous life. The relationship between arete and virtue ethics highlights the
importance of character development and moral excellence in guiding ethical
behavior and decision-making. It implies that by striving for arete and
cultivating virtuous qualities, individuals can lead a more fulfilling and morally
upright life, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and the well-
being of society as a whole.

4. How does Aristotle’s emphasis on the importance of habituation and practice relate to
the development of moral character in virtue ethics?

 Aristotle say it is necessary to be habituated into virtue because people aren’t

naturally born with virtue, we must acquire it through socialization. Aristotle's
emphasis on habituation and practice in virtue ethics highlights the idea that
moral character is not innate, but rather developed through repeated actions
and behaviors. By engaging in virtuous actions consistently, individuals
cultivate virtuous habits that shape their moral character over time. This
process of habituation and practice is essential in the development of a
virtuous individual according to Aristotle's virtue ethics.

5. Can Aristotle’s virtue ethics be applied to modern moral dilemmas, or are there
limitations to its applicability?
  Aristotle's virtue ethics can be applied to modern moral dilemmas, as it
emphasizes the development of virtuous character traits to guide ethical
decision-making. However, there may be limitations in its applicability due to
cultural and contextual differences in modern society, as well as the
complexity of contemporary moral issues.

Virtue Ethics and Character Development

1. How does virtue ethics prioritize the development of moral character, and what are the
benefits and limitations of this approach?

 Virtue ethics is abroad term for theories that emphasize the role of character
and virtue in moral philosophy rather than either doing one’s duty or acting in
order to bring about good consequences. Virtue ethics prioritizes the
development of moral character by focusing on cultivating virtuous traits
such as honesty, courage, and compassion. The benefits of this approach
include promoting long-term ethical behavior and personal growth. However,
a limitation is that it can be subjective and may not provide clear guidelines
for specific moral dilemmas. The emphasis on character development and role
of the emotions allows virtue ethics to have plausible account of moral
psychology, which lacking in deontology and consequentialism. Virtue ethics
can avoid the problematic concept of duty and obligations in favor of the rich
concept of virtue.

2. What are the key factors that contribute to the development of moral character in
virtue ethics, and how do they relate to one another?

 In order to be of good character, one must know the good, act in morally good
ways, and be disposed and inclined toward the good through the development
of virtues.

3. How does virtue ethics view the role of emotions and desires in moral decision-
making, and what are the implications of this view?

 Emotions are an original and integral part of (virtue) ethics. Emotions are an
inherent part of our moral reasoning and being, and therefore they should be
an inherent part of any moral deliberation. Must people do not realize how
much their emotions direct their moral choices. But experts think it is important
to make any important moral judgements without emotions.

4. Can virtue ethics provide a comprehensive account of moral development, or are

there limitations to its scope?

 It is the quest to understand and live a life of moral character. This character-
based approach to morality assumes that we acquire virtue through practice.
By practicing being honest, brave, just, generous, and so on, a person
develops an honorable and moral character. There’s a limitation when there’s
a lack of commitment to the set code of ethics guidelines.

5. How does virtue ethics relate to the concept of moral education, and what are the
implications of this relationship?

 Some version of virtue ethics, since the virtuous agent recognizes certain
actions as having virtue related characteristics and acts because of
characteristics. Moral educations are not only concerned with the fostering of
motivational capacities but also with developing an agent.
Virtue Ethics and Moral Decision-Making

1. How does virtue ethics approach moral decision-making, and what are the
implications of this approach?

 Virtue ethics create apperception that all discussion matter there’s is no

consequential decision. However small an external result of a decision is, the
result inside is much more important. The idea is that as individuals slowly
develop virtue after virtue, they will become completely virtuous.

2. What are the key virtues that are relevant to moral decision-making in virtue ethics,
and how do they relate to one another?

 It’s the guest to understand and live a life of moral character. Virtue ethics are
concerned with the whole person and ow they live, rather than one act. A
virtuous person will seek to do the right thing and take the right actions at all
times.

3. How does virtue ethics view the role of rules and principles in moral decision-making,
and what are the implications of this view?

 Virtue ethics is the idea that all decisions made by a person should be chosen in
the context of stirring to attain some virtue. It leads individuals to make
decisions based on the qualities they believe will be formed in them as a result.

4. Can virtue ethics provide a comprehensive account of moral decision-making, or are

there limitations to its scope?

 Provides guidance as to the sort of characteristics and behaviors a good person

will seek to achieve.

5. How does virtue ethics relate to the concept of moral intuition, and what are the
implications of this relationship?

 There are certain ideals, such as excellence or dedication to the common good,
towards which we should strive and which allow full development of our
humanity.

Part II

Identify and list down all six stages of Kohlbergs moral development as well as the three
levels he distributes them into. Provide concrete examples of actual adults and their actions
that belong to each of the six stages. You do not have name these real individuals, except
for your examples for the fifth and sixth stages. These last ones can serve as your
Kohlbergian moral exemplars.

The framework of Kohlberg’s theory consists of six stages arranged sequentially in

successive tiers of complexity. He organized his six stages into three general levels of
moral development.

Level 1: Pre-conventional level

 At the pre-conventional level, morality is externally controlled. Rules imposed

by authority figures are conformed to in order to avoid punishment or receive
 rewards. This perspective involves the idea that what is right is what one can
get away with or what is personally satisfying. Level 1 has two stages.
Stage 1: Punishment/obedience orientation
 Behaviour is determined by consequences. The individual will obey in order
to avoid punishment.
Stage 2: Instrumental purpose orientation
 Behaviour is determined again by consequences. The individual focuses on
receiving rewards or satisfying personal needs.

Level 2: Conventional level

 At the conventional level, conformity to social rules remains important to the

individual. However, the emphasis shifts from self-interest to relationships
with other people and social systems. The individual strives to support rules
that are set forth by others such as parents, peers, and the government in
order to win their approval or to maintain social order.
Stage 3: Good Boy/Nice Girl orientation
 Behaviour is determined by social approval. The individual wants to maintain
or win the affection and approval of others by being a “good person.
Stage 4: Law and order orientation
 Social rules and laws determine behaviour. The individual now takes into
consideration a larger perspective, that of societal laws. Moral decision
making becomes more than consideration of close ties to others. The
individual believes that rules and laws maintain social order that is worth
preserving.

Level 3: Post-conventional or principled level

 At the post-conventional level, the individual moves beyond the perspective

of his or her own society. Morality is defined in terms of abstract principles
and values that apply to all situations and societies. The individual attempts
to take the perspective of all individuals.
Stage 5: Social contract orientation
 Individual rights determine behaviour. The individual views laws and rules as
flexible tools for improving human purposes. That is, given the right situation,
there are exceptions to rules. When laws are not consistent with individual
rights and the interests of the majority, they do not bring about good for
people and alternatives should be considered.
Stage 6: Universal ethical principle orientation
 According to Kohlberg, this is the highest stage of functioning. However, he
claimed that some individuals will never reach this level. At this stage, the
appropriate action is determined by one’s self-chosen ethical principles of
conscience. These principles are abstract and universal in application. This
type of reasoning involves taking the perspective of every person or group
that could potentially be affected by the decision.

Part III

Enumerate five possible consequences of watching continuously violent programs

on television on one’s personality or character.

1. Causes greater aggressiveness that they may practice to imitate violent actions.
2. Being insensitive to the possible ill consequences brought about by watching
violent shows that they observe and consider violence as a way to solve problems.
3. Decrease empathy and cause increased aggressive thoughts, anger, and
aggressive behavior
4. Become "immune" or numb to the horror of violence
5. Identify with certain characters, victims and/or victimizers
Part IV

Write an essay on "The Importance of Making Decision”

Following Correct Procedures". Relate it to your own personal experience.

“The Importance of Making Decision”

Making decisions is an integral part of our daily lives, shaping our present and influencing our future.
The ability to make sound decisions is crucial in facing the complexities of life, and it is a skill that can have a
profound impact on our personal growth and development. Drawing from personal experience, I have come to
understand the importance of making decisions and the significant role they play in shaping our lives.

Every day presents us with unique challenges and situations that require careful consideration and
decision-making. The choices we make today shape who we become in the future. It is true crucial to approach
decision-making with a methodical process to ensure the best outcomes. The steps to guide us in making
informed decisions are first, identifying the nature of the decision at hand and assess its potential impact on
various aspects of your life. Understanding the significance of the decision is essential in guiding your next steps.
Second, exploring a range of options and seek input from trusted sources. While external advice can be valuable,
ultimately, the decision rests with you. Consider different perspectives to broaden your understanding. Third,
generating alternative courses of action based on the information gathered. Take the time to analyze and
synthesize data to create viable solutions. Then, evaluate each alternative by considering both factual
information and emotional responses. Assess how each option aligns with your goals and values to determine
the best course of action. Next, make a thoughtful decision after weighing the pros and cons of each alternative.
Trust your instincts and choose the option that resonates most with your objectives. Also, take decisive action to
implement your chosen course of action. Be prepared to follow through with your decision and adapt as
needed. Lastly, reflect on the outcomes of your decision and learn from the experience. Assess whether the
decision effectively addressed the issue and consider how you can improve your decision-making process in the
future.

Making decisions allows us to assert our autonomy and take ownership of the direction in which we
want to go. Moreover, making decisions is essential for personal growth and development. Each decision we
make, whether big or small, presents us with an opportunity to learn and grow. Through the process of decision-
making, we gain valuable insights into our values, priorities, and aspirations. We learn from our successes and
failures, honing our judgment and decision-making skills along the way. These experiences contribute to our
personal growth, helping us become more resilient, adaptable, and self-aware individuals. In my own life, I have
encountered numerous instances where the decisions I made have had a lasting impact on my journey. From
choosing a career path to making important life choices, each decision has shaped the person I am today. One
particular experience that stands out is the decision to pursue my education. Despite facing challenges such as
poverty, I made the decision to enroll and study, which ultimately opened up new opportunities and expanded
my horizons. This decision not only enhanced my knowledge and skills but also broadened my perspective and
enriched my personal and professional life. Furthermore, making decisions is essential for achieving our goals
and aspirations. Without the ability to make decisions, we would be adrift, lacking direction and purpose.
Decisions serve as the roadmap that guides us towards our desired outcomes, helping us stay focused and
motivated along the way. By making informed and thoughtful decisions, we can set goals, create action plans,
and work towards realizing our dreams.

In conclusion, making decisions following correct procedures is essential for personal growth and
success. By approaching decision-making methodically and thoughtfully, you can navigate challenges with
confidence and achieve favorable outcomes. Remember that each decision shapes your future, so take the time
to consider your options carefully. Decision-making is a fundamental aspect of human existence, influencing
every aspect of our lives. Through personal experience, I have come to appreciate the transformative power of
decisions and the profound impact they can have on our personal growth, empowerment, and success. By
embracing the process of decision-making, we can navigate life's uncertainties with confidence, clarity, and
purpose, ultimately shaping our own destinies and creating a life that is fulfilling and meaningful.