Rosalind Hursthouse

Definition

Rosalind Hursthouse is a contemporary philosopher known for her contributions to virtue ethics, particularly in relation to moral philosophy. Her work emphasizes the importance of character and virtues in ethical decision-making, shifting the focus from rules and consequences to the qualities that define a good person. Hursthouse's approach is significant because it aligns ethical behavior with human flourishing and the cultivation of virtues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hursthouse advocates for the view that moral actions are grounded in the character of the person acting, rather than just the consequences of their actions.
2. She argues that understanding virtues is essential for evaluating moral behavior and that a virtuous person will naturally act ethically.
3. Hursthouse is known for her critical analysis of traditional ethical theories, pushing for a more character-centered approach in moral reasoning.
4. Her work connects ethics with practical living, emphasizing that cultivating virtues leads to a fulfilling and meaningful life.
5. Hursthouse has contributed significantly to discussions on environmental ethics, highlighting how virtues can guide our relationship with the natural world.

Review Questions

• How does Hursthouse's approach to virtue ethics differ from traditional ethical theories?
  • Hursthouse's approach to virtue ethics shifts the focus from rigid rules or the consequences of actions to the character traits that define a good person. Unlike traditional ethical theories that may prioritize adherence to moral rules or evaluating outcomes, her emphasis is on the development of virtues as central to ethical living. This means that moral actions are seen as expressions of one's character, suggesting that cultivating virtues leads to inherently good behavior.
• In what ways does Hursthouse connect virtues with human flourishing in her ethical framework?
  • Hursthouse connects virtues with human flourishing by arguing that living a virtuous life naturally leads individuals towards achieving their full potential and well-being. She posits that virtues like honesty, courage, and compassion contribute not only to an individual's moral character but also enhance their overall quality of life. By fostering these virtues, individuals can navigate ethical dilemmas more effectively, leading to positive outcomes for themselves and society as a whole.
• Evaluate Hursthouse's contributions to environmental ethics and their implications for virtue ethics as a broader moral theory.
  • Hursthouse's contributions to environmental ethics extend virtue ethics into our relationship with nature, arguing that cultivating environmental virtues is crucial for sustainable living. She emphasizes that virtues such as respect for nature and responsibility towards future generations inform our moral obligations regarding environmental stewardship. This application of virtue ethics highlights its flexibility and relevance across different contexts, showing how character traits can guide our interactions not just with people but also with the natural world, ultimately contributing to a more holistic understanding of ethical behavior.

Related terms

Virtue Ethics:

A moral theory that emphasizes the role of character and virtues in ethical decision-making, rather than focusing solely on rules or consequences.

Character Traits: Stable qualities that influence how individuals think, feel, and behave in various situations, forming the basis of one's moral character.

Moral Philosophy: The study of what is right and wrong in human conduct, encompassing various ethical theories, including virtue ethics, deontology, and consequentialism.