Course : Ethical Leadership

Unit overview

In the unit on major moral traditions, we immerse ourselves in the profound philosophy of virtue ethics, tracing its origins from ancient Greek thought to its contemporary relevance. Delving into the works of Aristotle and other notable thinkers, we explore the central tenets of virtue ethics, emphasizing the cultivation of character and the pursuit of human flourishing. Through critical analysis and reflective inquiry, students gain a deep understanding of virtues such as courage, wisdom, temperance, and justice, and their role in guiding ethical behavior. By comparing and contrasting virtue ethics with other moral traditions, such as consequentialism and deontology, learners appreciate the unique emphasis on character development and the good life. Engaging with diverse perspectives and real-world applications, this unit fosters a nuanced understanding of virtue ethics as a timeless and relevant framework for ethical decision-making and personal development. Through scholarly inquiry and introspection, students are empowered to integrate virtue ethics into their own lives and contribute to a more just and flourishing society.

Keywords

virtue; practical wisdom; Aristotle; principles; character; moral agent; Kantian virtue

Required readings

• Kraut, Richard. "Aristotle’s Ethics." The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy  (Fall 2026 Edition), Edward N. Zalta & Uri Nodelman (eds.), https://plato.stanford.edu/archives/fall2026/entries/aristotle-ethics/.

Complementary readings

• Anscombe, G. E. M. “Modern Moral Philosophy.” Philosophy 33, no. 124 (1958): 1–19. https://www.jstor.org/stable/3749051.
• Hursthouse, Rosalind. “Virtue Theory and Abortion.” Philosophy & Public Affairs 20, no. 3 (1991): 223–246. https://www.jstor.org/stable/2265432.
• Valenzuela, P. Fredrickson on Flourishing through Positive Emotions and Aristotle’s Eudaimonia. Conatus - Journal of Philosophy 7, no. 2 (2022): 37–61. https://doi.org/10.12681/cjp.25202.