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Theories Of Right And Wrong

Decent Essays

316 Ethics and Social Responsibility

There are many different theories of right and wrong, and these viewpoints have been expressed and discussed for eons. Among these theories are the virtue theory, the theory of utilitarianism, and deontological theory. All of these theories are normative in nature in that they seek to describe what a person should or should not do to be morally correct. Though they have that in common, they also have distinct differences in ideology that separate them from one another regarding virtue, values, and moral concepts. Virtue theory was discussed at length by Aristotle as he formulated what he considered to be the four main virtues: justice, courage, temperance, and wisdom (Weineck). The most significant factor about virtue theory is that it focuses on how one should be rather than on what one should do (Weineck). It further focuses on what we should strive to become morally not on individual actions or outcomes (Weineck). According to Weineck, "Virtue ethics can be seen as an ethics of personal development." Weineck further stated that, "an individual's inclinations and desires are relevant to morality" and that a person's virtue can improve over time". Specifically, "virtue theory focuses more on the individual, and their characteristics, as opposed to just looking at an action that has been carried out", according to Weineck. Thus, the emphasis is on the individual's moral fiber rather than on actions or outcomes. Utilitarianism,

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