Consequentialism vs. Virtue Ethics

Attribute	Consequentialism	Virtue Ethics
Focus	Consequences of actions	Character of the agent
Goal	Maximize overall good	Developing virtuous character
Decision-making	Based on outcomes	Based on virtues
Emphasis	On results	On moral character
Approach	Teleological	Eudaimonistic

Introduction

Consequentialism and Virtue Ethics are two prominent ethical theories that provide different perspectives on how individuals should make moral decisions. While both aim to guide individuals towards ethical behavior, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will compare the key features of Consequentialism and Virtue Ethics to understand their differences and similarities.

Consequentialism

Consequentialism is an ethical theory that focuses on the outcomes or consequences of actions to determine their moral worth. According to Consequentialism, the rightness or wrongness of an action is solely based on its consequences. This means that an action is considered morally right if it leads to good outcomes, such as happiness or pleasure, and morally wrong if it leads to bad outcomes, such as suffering or harm.

• Focuses on outcomes
• Emphasizes the importance of consequences
• Utilitarianism is a popular form of Consequentialism
• Actions are judged based on their results
• Maximizing overall well-being is a key goal

Virtue Ethics

Virtue Ethics, on the other hand, is an ethical theory that focuses on the character of the individual and the virtues or moral qualities they possess. According to Virtue Ethics, being a good person is more important than doing good actions. This means that individuals should cultivate virtues such as honesty, courage, and compassion, which will guide them to make ethical decisions naturally.

• Focuses on character
• Emphasizes virtues and moral qualities
• Aristotle is a key figure in Virtue Ethics
• Actions are judged based on the character of the individual
• Developing moral excellence is a key goal

Comparison

When comparing Consequentialism and Virtue Ethics, one of the key differences is their focus. Consequentialism emphasizes the outcomes of actions, while Virtue Ethics focuses on the character of the individual. While Consequentialism looks at the results of actions to determine their moral worth, Virtue Ethics considers the virtues and moral qualities that guide individuals to make ethical decisions.

Another difference between Consequentialism and Virtue Ethics is their approach to moral decision-making. Consequentialism relies on a calculation of the consequences of actions to determine their morality, while Virtue Ethics emphasizes the cultivation of virtues that lead individuals to act in morally right ways. Consequentialism is more concerned with the ends justifying the means, while Virtue Ethics is concerned with the character of the individual.

Similarities

Despite their differences, Consequentialism and Virtue Ethics share some similarities. Both ethical theories aim to guide individuals towards ethical behavior and help them make moral decisions. While Consequentialism focuses on the outcomes of actions and Virtue Ethics focuses on the character of the individual, both theories ultimately seek to promote goodness and moral excellence.

Additionally, both Consequentialism and Virtue Ethics have been influential in the field of ethics and have been studied and debated by philosophers for centuries. While they may have different approaches to ethical decision-making, they both offer valuable insights into how individuals can lead ethical lives and contribute to a more just and virtuous society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Consequentialism and Virtue Ethics are two distinct ethical theories that offer different perspectives on how individuals should make moral decisions. While Consequentialism focuses on the outcomes of actions and the consequences they produce, Virtue Ethics emphasizes the character of the individual and the virtues they possess. Despite their differences, both theories aim to guide individuals towards ethical behavior and promote moral excellence.