Fortifying Virtue Ethics: Recognizing the Essential Roles of Eudaimonia and Phronesis

Abstract

There is not one, single theory of virtue ethics that commands general agreement in the field. The aim of this dissertation is to help resolve this problem by proposing that eudaimonia and phronesis are necessary for a comprehensive virtue ethics theory. I argue for this thesis in two ways: positively and negatively. In a positive way, I give arguments supporting the thesis. Eudaimonia justifies the virtues. We need the virtues to enable us to live a characteristically good human life. Phronesis is necessary to ensure the proper functioning of virtues. It plays four roles: (1) determines the mean of a disposition (2) establishes the means to achieve proposed ends (3) contributes to determining the end and (4) helps motivates actions. On the negative side, I critique the work of authors who reject or downplay eudaimonia or phronesis, thereby strengthening support for my thesis.