Aristotle's ethical theory emphasizes the importance of virtuous character and the pursuit of eudaimonia, often translated as "happiness" or "flourishing." In this context, Aristotle wants a moral agent who embodies virtues and strives for a life of flourishing. Here are the key characteristics of the moral agent that Aristotle envisions:
Virtuous Character: Aristotle believes that the ultimate goal of human life is to achieve eudaimonia, and this is accomplished through the cultivation of virtues. Virtues are excellent character traits that lie between the extremes of excess and deficiency. For example, courage is a virtue that lies between the excess of recklessness and the deficiency of cowardice.
Rational Deliberation: According to Aristotle, moral agents possess the capacity for rational deliberation. They consider the various options available to them and evaluate them based on their understanding of what is good and conducive to their well-being.
Desire for the Good: Moral agents have a desire to achieve what they perceive as good. This perception of the good is shaped by their virtues and their understanding of what leads to a flourishing life. Their decisions and actions are guided by this desire for the good.
Practical Wisdom (Phronesis): Aristotle emphasizes the importance of practical wisdom in making ethical decisions. Practical wisdom is the ability to discern what is morally right and best in a particular situation and to act accordingly. It involves applying general principles and virtues to specific circumstances.
Agency and Responsibility: Moral agents have the capacity to act deliberately and are responsible for their actions. They are not merely passive recipients of external influences but actively shape their own lives through their choices and actions.
Development and Education: Aristotle believes that becoming a moral agent is a developmental process. It involves acquiring virtues through education, habituation, and moral guidance. Virtuous actions become second nature through practice and repetition.
Overall, Aristotle wants individuals to become virtuous moral agents who strive for excellence and lead a flourishing life by cultivating virtues, exercising practical wisdom, and making decisions that align with their understanding of the good. By doing so, they contribute to the well-being of themselves and their communities.