The Dissenter

#1102 Mandi Astola: Character, Virtue, and Vice

May 26, 2025
Mandi Astola, Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Delft University of Technology, dives deep into the intricate web of character, virtue, and vice. She explains how our emotional responses influence how we perceive others' traits. The discussion explores whether groups can have collective character, emphasizing the importance of diversity in fostering collective wisdom. Astola also navigates the paradox of vices possibly enhancing group dynamics and the role of discomfort in prompting moral change. Her insights challenge traditional views and invite listeners to rethink what it means to cultivate character.
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INSIGHT

What is Character?

  • Character consists of long-term, stable dispositions to behave or think in certain ways, forming one's moral personality. - The term 'character' also implies a unique, distinctive 'engraved mark' akin to a soul's imprint.
INSIGHT

Evaluating Character Traits

  • Good character traits enable living well with others and garner admiration, while bad traits repel and cause suspicion. - Repeated display of traits, not isolated incidents, forms our moral evaluation of character.
INSIGHT

Virtues, Vices, and Mental Illness

  • Good traits that promote flourishing are virtues; bad ones that hinder it are vices. - Mental illness complicates virtue/vice classification, sometimes requiring distinct categories.
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