What are two of Aristotle's virtues?

One of Aristotle's key virtues is the virtue of being indignant. He teaches that a virtuous person would be justified in being upset if an individual does well when they should not have. For example, if a person wins a game by cheating, it is justified to be angry or upset by this. But Aristotle warns agains being envious or retributive. An envious person would be angry any time someone did well, even if that individual did well deservedly. A retributive person would take joy in anyone's misfortune, even if the misfortune was deserved.

Another one of Aristotle's virtues is the virtue of being benevolent. Being a benevolent person means offering help to others whenever is realistically possible. But, Aristotle believes being too giving leads to self-sacrifice. Self-sacrificing means a person is unable to recognize when help can't be offered or is not needed. A virtuous person knows when to say no. But never offering help leads to a person becoming mean. This is also wrong in Aristotle's eyes. A virtuous person offers help when possible.

Related Philosophy and Ethics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why are most Catholics pro-life?


Explain how Christian teachings affect the attitudes of Christians to abortion.


Explain the philosophical problem of evil


"Divorce is never right". Evaluate this statement.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy