United States Military Academy - PHL 200Intro to Ethics Unit 4

Unit 4 Challenge 1

Which of the following best defines virtue-based ethics?

Answer: An ethical theory that emphasizes moral character over principles.
A theory of ethics that asserts that actions reveal and reinforce personal characteristics

Choose the true statement about virtue-based ethics.

Answer: Actions are evaluated based on how the action reveals the actor’s character.

Jean lies to her boss about not feeling well so she can stay home and watch her favorite shows.
How might a virtue-based ethicist classify this action?

Answer: Impermissible

Laura wears a lot of green because it nicely compliments her red hair.
How might a virtue-based ethicist classify this action?

Answer: Neutral

Kevin reads for 30 minutes every afternoon to improve his intellect.
How might a virtue-based ethicist classify this action?

Answer: Obligatory

Lucy overheard her parents talking about her beloved Uncle Paul and was shocked to learn that he had been arrested that day.
“What?” she shouted, betraying her secret listening spot beneath the dining room table. “What?”
Lucy’s mother frowned, but quickly reassured her daughter. “He was protesting the new oil pipeline outside of town, dear. Typical Paul. He’ll be fine.”
According to virtue-based ethics, Paul’s act of protest is evaluated based on how his action reveals __________ and is considered permissible because it demonstrates his commitment to protecting the Earth.

Answer: character