Single Idea 22398

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 1. Virtue Theory / b. Basis of virtue]

Full Idea

The virtues are corrective, each one standing at a point at which there is some temptation to be resisted or deficiency of motivation to be made good.

Gist of Idea

Virtues are corrective, to resist temptation or strengthen motivation

Source

Philippa Foot (Virtues and Vices [1978], II)

Book Reference

Foot,Philippa: 'Virtues and Vices' [Blackwell 1981], p.8


A Reaction

A beautifully simple and accurate observation, which I don't remember meeting in Aristotle (...though she cites him as saying that virtues concern what is difficult for us). Justice and charity are given as examples of inadequate motivation.