Sadler's Lectures Alasdair MacIntyre - How To Appear Virtuous Without Being So - The Facade Of Moral Consensus
Jan 4, 2024
Explore the intriguing concept of a 'facade of moral consensus' in modern society, as discussed by philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre. Delve into the distinction between genuine virtues and mere superficial appearances. Learn why mere acts of kindness or bravery fail to establish true character. Understand how the ambiguous use of virtue language allows for public figures to maintain their images despite inconsistencies. Encounter key questions that challenge our understanding of moral behavior and the indeterminate nature of modern ethics.
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Virtue Needs Rational Defense
- MacIntyre distinguishes genuine virtues from mere rhetoric by requiring a rationally defensible, systematic account of virtues.
- Appeals to gut feeling or sentiment cannot substitute for coherent, public justification of what virtues are.
Flashcard Virtues Miss Character
- Sadler uses everyday ascriptions like calling a child 'generous' after a one-off act to show how flimsy praise can be.
- Such casual labels often mistake isolated actions for stable character dispositions.
No Shared Systematic Morality
- MacIntyre argues rival incompatible systematic accounts of virtue exist, so no single public program can ground moral education.
- Public claims of shared morality mask deep theoretical disagreement among contending views.
