Virtue Ethics: An Introduction to Ethics of Character

Question 1

Which of the following is a fundamental idea of virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

The rightness or wrongness of an action is determined by the moral character of the person performing it.

Answer

Actions are morally acceptable if they adhere to universal principles.

Answer

The outcomes of an action are the sole determinant of its moral value.

Answer

Moral obligations are primarily influenced by societal expectations.

Question 2

Who is widely regarded as the pioneer of virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

Aristotle

Answer

Plato

Answer

Socrates

Answer

Immanuel Kant

Question 3

Which of the following virtues is NOT included in Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics?

Accepted Answer

Humility

Answer

Courage

Answer

Temperance

Answer

Wisdom

Question 4

Explain the core idea of virtue ethics.

Accepted Answer

The morality of an action is determined by the nature of the person who performs it.

Answer

The morality of an action is determined by its consequences.

Answer

The morality of an action is determined by its adherence to universal moral rules.

Answer

The morality of an action is determined by its cultural context.

Question 5

Who is widely regarded as the founder of virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

Aristotle

Answer

Plato

Answer

Socrates

Answer

Confucius

Question 6

Identify the characteristic that is NOT considered a virtue in Aristotle's ethical theory.

Accepted Answer

Humility

Answer

Courage

Answer

Wisdom

Answer

Justice

Question 7

Which contemporary philosopher is credited with reviving interest in virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

Alasdair MacIntyre

Answer

John Rawls

Answer

Immanuel Kant

Answer

Friedrich Nietzsche

Question 8

Distinguish between an agent-based morality and a patient-based morality.

Accepted Answer

Agent-based morality focuses on the character of the actor, while patient-based morality focuses on the circumstances of the action.

Answer

Agent-based morality focuses on the consequences of actions, while patient-based morality focuses on the intentions of the actor.

Answer

Agent-based morality focuses on the rights of the individual, while patient-based morality focuses on the well-being of society.

Answer

There is no meaningful distinction between agent-based and patient-based morality.

Question 9

Identify a key strength of virtue ethics.

Accepted Answer

It emphasizes the importance of individual character development.

Answer

It provides a clear and objective moral code.

Answer

It is easy to understand and apply in everyday life.

Answer

It is universally accepted across different cultures.

Question 10

Which characteristic sets virtue ethics apart from other ethical theories?

Accepted Answer

Emphasis on developing virtuous character traits

Answer

Sole reliance on the outcomes of actions

Answer

Exclusive use of logic in ethical choices

Answer

Strict adherence to a fixed set of rules

Question 11

In virtue ethics, how is virtuous character linked to personal well-being?

Accepted Answer

Character traits are prioritized over actions for a fulfilling life

Answer

Virtuous actions guarantee favorable outcomes

Answer

Self-interest is the primary goal of virtuous behavior

Answer

Moral rules should be strictly followed, regardless of individual circumstances

Question 12

In virtue ethics, how do moral exemplars help people develop virtuous habits?

Accepted Answer

They provide real-life examples of virtuous behavior.

Answer

They are not necessary for developing virtue.

Answer

They should only be religious figures.

Answer

They are only helpful for people with poor moral character.

Question 13

In virtue ethics, what is the primary consideration when evaluating the moral worth of an action?

Accepted Answer

The character of the individual who performs the action

Answer

The intentions that motivate the action

Answer

The rules or norms that are followed

Answer

The consequences that arise from the action

Question 14

What is the key difference between virtue ethics and deontological ethics?

Accepted Answer

Virtue ethics focuses on the individual's character, while deontological ethics emphasizes adherence to moral rules.

Answer

Virtue ethics deals with general principles, while deontological ethics focuses on specific actions.

Answer

Virtue ethics is subjective, while deontological ethics is objective.

Question 15

Which of the following is a significant advantage of virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding morality, considering both the individual and their actions.

Answer

It is immune to cultural variations.

Answer

It is universally applicable, regardless of context or circumstances.

Answer

It offers straightforward guidance for everyday decision-making.

Question 16

What is a potential limitation of virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

It can be challenging to define and assess virtues objectively.

Answer

It can lead to moral relativism.

Answer

It ignores the influence of external factors on moral decision-making.

Answer

It places excessive emphasis on individual autonomy.

Question 17

Who is widely recognized as the originator of virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

Aristotle

Answer

Confucius

Answer

Plato

Answer

Socrates

Question 18

How are virtues distinguished from character traits?

Accepted Answer

Virtues are qualities that enable us to act morally upright, while character traits are merely observable attributes.

Answer

Virtues are innate, whereas character traits are acquired.

Question 19

Which of the following exemplifies a virtue?

Accepted Answer

Courage

Answer

Happiness

Answer

Wealth

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the fundamental principle of virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

The moral value of an action is determined by the character of the person performing it.

Answer

Moral rules or duties guide our conduct.

Answer

The consequences of an action determine its moral status.

Question 21

Who is commonly recognized as the historical founder of virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

Aristotle

Answer

Plato

Answer

Kant

Question 22

According to Aristotle, how are virtues related to eudaimonia or happiness?

Accepted Answer

Virtuous actions contribute to achieving eudaimonia.

Answer

Virtues are obstacles to achieving eudaimonia.

Answer

Eudaimonia is irrelevant to virtue ethics.

Answer

Eudaimonia is solely dependent on external factors.

Question 23

Who is known for their significant contribution to the revival of interest in virtue ethics in the 20th century?

Accepted Answer

Alasdair MacIntyre

Answer

Friedrich Nietzsche

Answer

John Rawls

Answer

Immanuel Kant

Question 24

What is the key idea behind MacIntyre's communitarian approach to virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

Virtues are situated within and shaped by social practices.

Answer

Virtues are solely determined by individual conscience.

Answer

Virtues are universal and unchanging.

Question 25

How does virtue ethics differ from deontological ethics in its primary focus?

Accepted Answer

Virtue ethics emphasizes the character of the agent, while deontological ethics prioritizes rules and duties.

Answer

Virtue ethics is subjective, while deontological ethics is objective.

Question 26

Which of the following is an example of a practical application of virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

Character education programs aimed at developing virtuous habits.

Answer

Medical ethics guidelines

Answer

Legal codes