3.7 Virtue as a point of reference for ethical behaviour

eyond basic duties and purpose-oriented maximisation of benefits as points of reference for ethical action, virtue ethics are also repeatedly cited. The word virtue stands for the disposition of a person's character that leads to a way of life that enables an individually and collectively good life. In most cases, reference is made to the Greek philosopher Aristotle, who lived in the 4th century BC . His ideas still have an impact today. For him, the question of the good life took centre stage, resulting in the ethical question "How should I live?". Virtue ethics therefore does not primarily focus on the evaluation of individual actions, but on the evaluation of the acting person as a whole.

In the Aristotelian sense, virtue ethics represents an understanding that emphasises a certain wisdom of life and avoids extremes. It is about finding the rational balance of a matter, as too much or too little can be harmful. The virtues necessary for this can be learnt and should be at the service of the general public. They have to be moulded and practised like skills. The virtuous person is characterised by the fact that they know how to make the right decisions in relevant situations. In modern adaptations of ancient virtue ethics, virtues represent the collective good that must be applied individually. The respective historical context in which we live is also important. It is characterised in how we link our different actions according to established role models. The question of the right action for the sustainability officer who discovers that her colleague is violating environmental regulations also involves a certain understanding of her role in terms of virtue ethics. This is based on the expectations of her profession and must also be in line with her own ethical motives. Situational and personal aspects can play a greater role in virtue ethics than in duty ethics and utilitarian ethics. This applies both with regard to the community and with regard to what a virtuous person would do.

Situational and personal aspects can be more effective in virtue ethics than in duty ethics and utilitarian ethics. This is albeit with regard to the community and with regard to what a virtuous person would do.