The definitions attached to the term virtue - and the underlying
concept therein - are as diverse as the various discussion platforms employed
in discussing and developing it. To effectively discuss the topic and concept
of virtue, it is imperative effective definitions be provided as the background
through which these discussions are developed. Although it was birthed from the
ancient Greek and Latin civilization, the concept of virtue has a great impact
on the modern day society (Aristotle, Ross, Ackrill & Urmson).One of the
simplest – and most effective – definitions of virtue presents it as moral
excellence. By utilizing this definition, it is important to define and expound
two important elements; morals, and excellence. Established as the root element
in the concept of morality, morals are the foundations – both in actions and
thought processes – through which a person is able to differentiate decisions,
actions, and intentions between those that qualify as good and those that
qualify as bad. In discussing morality, it is important to underscore the fact
that morality can be presented as a body of principles or standards which are
birthed out of the code of conduct contained in a specific religion, culture,
or philosophy. In most – if not all – discussion platforms, morality is
employed synonymously with righteousness or goodness (Aristotle, Ross, Ackrill
& Urmson). One of the simplest and most profound definitions of excellence
presents it as a quality or talent which is exceptionally good thus surpassing
ordinary standards. It is important to note that excellence is not a state; it
is a like a moving target that continuously requires the constant employment
and upgrading of different principles and standards. With these in mind –
morality and excellence – virtue can be presented as the continuous upgrading
and or improvement of the moral standards possessed by an individual or party (Aristotle,
Ross, Ackrill & Urmson).
There are
numerous flaws that exist with regards to the modern view of virtue. One of the
greatest questions that shape up the analysis on the challenges facing the
modern view of morality is; why should we care? Asked to the modern society,
this question is not only an interrogation with regards to a person’s level of
moral excellence, but an effective tool through which an individual can reflect
on virtue in both the short term and the long term. Personally, this question
challenges me to not only take the initiative of caring, but invest in
understand the underlying principles that define caring and other similar interactions
(Vitz). In the modern society, it is evident to note that the moral choices by
individuals infuse most – if not all – aspects of their lives both consciously
and unconsciously. Personally, I am challenged to not only invest in the
conscious moral choices I make, but also in the unconscious decisions. In the
modern society, a great number of the moral decisions made by individuals are
bad decisions. Such decisions are the underlying reasons behind the constant
overflow in the prison numbers as well as high levels of recidivism in the
society (Vitz). The number of radical ideologies is growing and so is the
number of dead people from war and war related activities. The rampant cheating
being experienced in universities and schools is also the result of ill advised
moral choices. Where education ethics are concerned, I am challenged to ensure
that what I deliver to the best of my ability and within the expected standards
(Vitz).
Within the
modern society, it is evident to note that there are numerous negative effects
birthed out of bad moral choices. These effects range from the increase violent
crimes, murder, divorce, cheating, and corruption to sexism, ageism, racism,
bias, and discriminations. With the ever increasing cases birthed out of
immorality, I have personally dedicated my life to not only understanding this
topic, but also sensitizing those around me to make wise and informed decisions
where morality is concerned (Vitz).
Another
important question presented in the analysis of the challenges facing modern
perceptions on virtue is; what is the problem with our moral standards? Here,
the most effective answer is; the question of moral problems is not provided
with the right quantity and quality of attention. Whenever people in the modern
society focus on the topic of virtue, it is mostly for the wrong reasons. Moral
problems are not provided with the nature and level of attention they require
and due to this, they are continually growing and this is evident in the number
of negative effects within the society. Personally, I am challenged to invest
excellently in the topic of morality as it undergirds the entire concept of
virtue. Here, the element of quantity investment is as equally important as
quality investment (Kateb & John).
Within the
confinements of modern society, the reward system has been recalibrated to focus
on rewarding material progress as opposed to moral progress. Today, people are
ready, willing, and waiting to applaud material progress but there are minimal
– if any – people who focus on moral progress. Due to this – shift in
attention, perspective, and standards – the number of negative effects
associated with immorality is constantly growing. Personally, this challenges
me to not only invest in understanding the factors undergirding the shift in
attention, perspective, and standards of morality, but also invest in altering
my individual perception on morality and using this as the tool through which I
impact those around me (Aristotle, Ross, Ackrill & Urmson).
Modern society is designed to view and practice morality through defined rules and regulations. Morality that is founded on rules and regulations – especially in practice – does not accomplish the full intention of morality (Kateb & John).To effectively achieve the goal of morality and be a virtuous person one is expected to move from the realm where they practice morality as ascribed by the different rules and regulations, and get to a point where they understand the main reasons and goals presented in the various rules and regulations. It is impossible for a virtuous person, in their day to day undertaking and thought processes, to go outside what is stipulated in the moral and ethical rules and regulations (Kateb & John).This is because a virtuous person exists in a level where the background of rules and regulations are establishing. Personally, I am challenged to invest in more than following the various rules and regulations I am provided with. I need to get to a point where I understand the background of rules and regulations throughout expounding my knowledge on morality. This investment will transform me from a mere follower of rules and regulations to a virtuous person; able to differentiate the importance of rules and regulations from the structure and goals of living a virtuous life. Understanding virtue is important as it provides great insights on morality and how an individual can ensure their intentions, actions, and decisions are in line virtuous living (Kateb & John).
Works Cited
Aristotle, W D. Ross, J L. Ackrill, and J O. Urmson. The Nicomachean Ethics. Oxford
(Oxfordshire: Oxford University Press, 2014. Print.
Kateb, George, and John E. Seery. George Kateb: Dignity, Morality, Individuality. , 2014. Print.
Vitz, Rico. Reforming the Art of Living: Nature, Virtue, and Religion in Descartes's
Epistemology. , 2014. Print.
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