11.6 Chapter Glossary

Agent-Centered – The primary focus of virtue ethics is on the agent, the one doing the action, not on the act or its consequences.

Cardinal Virtues – The four core virtues of ancient Greek culture: Wisdom, Justice, Courage and Temperance.

Civic Virtues – The virtues that held society together: Justice, Piety and Citizenship.

Eudaimonia – According to Aristotle, the state of full human flourishing, the aim of the life of virtue.

Golden Mean – Aristotle’s belief that we should always seek the middle ground between excess and deficiency in our character traits.

Intellectual Virtues – The virtues of the mind, Theoretical Wisdom, Practical Wisdom, Intelligence, Science and Technical Skill.

Moral Virtues – The primary virtues of exemplary character: Generosity, Temperance, Courage, Magnificence, Magnanimity, et. al.