What is the role of virtues in normative ethics?

Philosophy Normative Ethics Questions



35 Short 22 Medium 48 Long Answer Questions Question Index

What is the role of virtues in normative ethics?

The role of virtues in normative ethics is to provide a framework for determining what actions are morally right or wrong. Virtues are positive character traits or qualities that individuals should cultivate in order to lead a good and ethical life. They serve as guiding principles for moral decision-making and help individuals to develop habits of moral excellence. Virtues such as honesty, compassion, courage, and justice are considered to be morally valuable and are seen as essential for living a virtuous life. In normative ethics, virtues are often contrasted with vices, which are negative character traits or qualities that hinder moral development. By emphasizing the cultivation of virtues, normative ethics aims to promote ethical behavior and the flourishing of individuals and society as a whole.