7.3 The Doctrine of the Mean and its application

Aristotle's Doctrine of the Mean is a key concept in virtue ethics. It suggests that virtues are the middle ground between extremes of excess and deficiency. This idea applies to various character traits and actions, helping guide ethical decision-making.

The doctrine emphasizes the importance of practical wisdom in finding the right balance. It acknowledges that the "mean" can vary based on individual circumstances and requires careful consideration of context. This approach offers a nuanced framework for developing virtuous character.

The Golden Mean and Virtue

Understanding the Golden Mean and Its Relation to Virtue

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• Golden mean represents the desirable middle ground between two extremes
• Virtue as a mean defines moral excellence as the midpoint between excess and deficiency
• Aristotle's concept of virtue emerges from finding balance in character traits and actions
• Relative mean varies depending on the individual and specific circumstances
• Excess involves going beyond what is appropriate or necessary in a given situation
• Deficiency entails falling short of what is required or expected in a particular context

Exploring Virtues Through the Lens of the Mean

• Courage serves as a mean between cowardice (deficiency) and recklessness (excess)
• Generosity balances between miserliness (deficiency) and wastefulness (excess)
• Temperance finds equilibrium between insensibility (deficiency) and self-indulgence (excess)
• Friendliness strikes a balance between unfriendliness (deficiency) and obsequiousness (excess)
• Modesty represents the mean between shamelessness (deficiency) and bashfulness (excess)

Challenges and Nuances of Applying the Mean

• Identifying the mean requires careful consideration of context and individual circumstances
• Some virtues may not have a clear deficiency or excess (honesty, justice)
• Cultural and societal norms can influence perceptions of what constitutes the mean
• Achieving the mean often involves a process of trial and error and continuous self-reflection
• The mean is not always the arithmetic average between two extremes

Practical Application of the Mean

Developing Practical Judgment for Ethical Decision-Making

• Practical judgment (phronesis) involves applying wisdom to determine the appropriate mean
• Cultivating practical judgment requires experience, reflection, and moral education
• Aristotle emphasizes the importance of habit formation in developing virtuous character
• Practical judgment helps navigate complex ethical dilemmas by considering multiple factors
• Developing this skill involves learning from past experiences and anticipating future consequences

Situational Ethics and Contextual Considerations

• Situational ethics recognizes that moral decisions depend on specific circumstances
• Applying the mean requires flexibility and adaptability to different contexts
• Factors to consider include cultural norms, individual capabilities, and potential outcomes
• Situational approach acknowledges that what constitutes virtue may vary in different scenarios
• Balancing universal principles with contextual considerations presents ongoing challenges

Learning from Moral Exemplars and Role Models

• Moral exemplars serve as living examples of virtuous behavior and practical wisdom
• Studying the lives and decisions of admired individuals provides insights into applying the mean
• Historical figures (Socrates, Gandhi) offer lessons in courage, wisdom, and temperance
• Contemporary role models demonstrate how to navigate modern ethical challenges
• Analyzing the actions of moral exemplars helps refine one's own judgment and character
• Emulating virtuous behavior of exemplars can guide personal growth and ethical development