Examine the approach taken to moral decision making by Aristotelian Virtue Ethics. You... - AI essay feedback

Feedback

Examine the approach taken to moral decision making by Aristotelian Virtue Ethics. You... - AI essay feedback

Virtue ethics is a character-based, agent-centered theory rooted in the Philosophy of Aristotle that focus on the cultivation of good character traits rather than the actions done in a given situation. It therefore rejects the deontological approach The Natural Moral Law takes to moral decision-making and focuses on achieving Eudaimonia which is ultimate happiness and human flourishing. Aristotle introduced 12 virtues which lie in between two extremes - deficiency and excess, known as vices, which he believed allow us to decide whether an action is moral or not. This is known as the doctrine of the mean. He also believed that humans have phronesis (practical wisdom) which allows to reason when making decisions. On the topic of Abortion, in order to decide whether this act is moral or not, we must first identify the intentions/context behind this act before examining whether it aligns with Aristotle's 12 virtues and vices. Virtue ethics holds a slightly similar approach to Situation Ethics and so the context of the act is very vital. If the mother wants to undergo abortion on the basis that she has simply regretted her decision and does not want to have the baby, Virtue ethics would deem this action as immoral, because it aligns with the vices "Greed/selfishness" (as she does not care about her potential baby) and/or "cowardice" (as she chooses the 'easy' way out and doesn't address her problem) However, if the mother wants to undergo abortion because by keeping the baby, it poses as a health risk to the mother, then virtue ethics would allow this action because it aligns with the virtues "Right ambition" (because she has the right intentions) and "courage" (because she is doing what is necessary). Virtue ethics is very flexible in its moral decision making and relies on the context of the situation.

Feedback

Mark

7/10

Paragraphs Feedback

The first paragraph provides a solid introduction to Aristotelian Virtue Ethics, clearly outlining its key principles such as the focus on character, the doctrine of the mean, and the concept of phronesis. To improve, consider providing more specific examples of the 12 virtues to enhance clarity and depth. For instance, mentioning virtues like courage, temperance, or justice could help illustrate your points more effectively.
The second paragraph effectively applies Virtue Ethics to the issue of abortion, discussing the importance of context in moral decision-making. However, the analysis could be deepened by exploring how different virtues might apply in various scenarios beyond just the two you provided. This would demonstrate a broader understanding of the flexibility of Virtue Ethics.
The third paragraph summarizes the flexibility of Virtue Ethics well, but it could benefit from a more explicit connection back to the implications of this flexibility for moral decision-making in complex issues like abortion. Consider discussing how this flexibility might lead to different conclusions in different cultural or personal contexts.
The conclusion is somewhat implicit in the last paragraph. A more explicit conclusion that summarizes the key points made and reiterates the significance of Virtue Ethics in the context of abortion would strengthen the overall argument. This could include a statement about the importance of character and intention in moral decisions.

What Went Well

The essay demonstrates a clear understanding of Aristotelian Virtue Ethics, effectively explaining its core principles and applying them to the issue of abortion. The use of specific virtues and vices to illustrate moral decision-making is a strong point.

Even Better If

To achieve a higher mark, the essay should include more detailed examples of the virtues and vices, explore a wider range of scenarios regarding abortion, and provide a clearer conclusion that ties together the main points discussed. Additionally, engaging with potential counterarguments or alternative perspectives within Virtue Ethics could enhance the depth of the analysis.

Overall Feedback

Overall, the essay provides a solid examination of Aristotelian Virtue Ethics and its application to the issue of abortion. While it effectively outlines the theory and applies it to specific cases, it would benefit from deeper exploration of the virtues, a broader range of examples, and a more explicit conclusion. Strengthening these areas could elevate the response to a higher mark.