Virtue Ethics Virtue Theory, Utilitarianism,

Virtue Ethics

Virtue Theory, Utilitarianism, and Deontological Ethics

Acceptable social behavior and the formation of social behaviors can be analyzed through the application of various theories. Theories that can be analyzed to explain or define acceptable social behaviors are virtue theories, utilitarianism, and deontological ethics. While no single theory can be used to explain or define acceptable social behavior, each of these theories provides meaningful insight into the development social behavior.

Virtue theories aim to emphasize the importance of an individual's character and morals over duty. Many virtue theories are based on Aristotle's teachings. Aristotle believed that a "virtuous person is someone who has ideal character traits" (Athanassoulis, 2004). Virtue theories are based on a belief of universality, that principles and virtues can be applied to different situations without prejudice. Virtue theories include concepts of Eudemonism, agent-based theories, and ethics of care (Athanassoulis, 2004). Eudemonism holds that virtues are found in individual flourishing, "where flourishing is equated with performing one's distinctive function well" (Athanassoulis, 2004). On the other hand, agent-based theories are based on the belief that individuals will try to mimic the virtuous qualities they see in other people based on intuition, and the ethics of care hold that virtue is also found in caring and the nurturing of others.

Utilitarianism defines morality in "terms of the maximization of net expectable utility for all parties affected by a decision or action," that is to say, that this theory seeks to determine if an action is virtuous based on how many people benefit from a specific decision or action (Day, 1997). John Stuart Mill (1863) further argued, "Actions are right to the degree that they tend to promote the greatest good for the greatest number." Additionally, Jeremy Bentham (1776), the father of modern utilitarianism, argued "It is the greatest happiness of the greatest number that is the measure of right and wrong," which further emphasizes the belief that the greatest good can be quantified by the amount of people that are helped. In utilitarianism, focus is shifted from how one's actions affect an individual to how one's actions affect those around said individual.

On the other hand, deontological ethics aim to define how an individual should act. Deontological ethics are based on other theories that focus on duty and obligation. Immanuel Kant (1785) argued that an individual should "always act in such a way that you can also will that the maxim of your action become universal law" (p. v). It can be argued that Kant's arguments are echoed in a quote often attributed to Ghandi, "Be the change you want to see in the world" (Lewis, 2011). In other words, deontological ethics contend that individuals should lead by example and establish moral precedent through their virtuous actions.

Each of these theories is seen every day through in our actions and decisions. One of the virtue theories that I strive to embody is Eudemonism, which encourages me to be the best that I can be, and put forth the effort necessary to be successful in my endeavors. I believe that by being the best person I can be, or being the best student I can be, I not only demonstrate discipline, but that I also acquire the tools and knowledge necessary to take what I have learned and use it to help others. By being the best person I can be, I also set an example for others and am transformed into a role model, not only for my fellow students, but also for younger generations of my family. It is through hard work and dedication that I will be able to accomplish my academic and professional goals, and help to make a difference in other people's lives.