Virtue Ethics: Living According to Moral Excellence
Understand virtue ethics and how Stoics defined the good life through character excellence rather than external achievements.
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Understanding Virtue Ethics: Living According to Moral Excellence
Virtue ethics differs fundamentally from both consequentialism (judging actions by outcomes) and deontology (judging by rules). Instead, it asks: 'What kind of person should I be?' This approach creates sustainable moral excellence because it focuses on character development rather than external compliance.
Key Distinctions
Character vs. Rules
Instead of following moral rules, develop virtuous character that naturally produces right action
Process vs. Outcomes
Focus on becoming virtuous rather than achieving specific results
Internal vs. External
True success is measured by character excellence, not external achievements
Deeper Resources
Continue Your Stoic Journey
The Four Stoic Virtues
Core principles of character development
Stoic Principles
Essential teachings for daily life
Marcus Aurelius
The philosopher emperor
Dichotomy of Control
The foundation of Stoic practice
Stoic Meditation
Ancient practices for modern mindfulness
Famous Stoics
Great philosophers throughout history