Single Idea 23144

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 1. Virtue Theory / a. Nature of virtue]

Full Idea

The behavioural aspects of virtue are more important than its phenomenology, because virtue is best defined along consequentialist lines.

Clarification

The phenomenology is the states of mind involved

Gist of Idea

Virtue should be defined by consequences, not by states of mind

Source

Julia Driver (The Virtues and Human Nature [1996], Intro)

Book Reference

'How Should One Live? On the Virtues', ed/tr. Crisp,Roger [OUP 1998], p.111


A Reaction

This is the thesis of her paper. Quite persuasive. Consequences are, of course, important in all moral theories (even Kant's). She doesn't rely on human nature. The social virtues vary according to the circumstances, such as gossiping in wartime.