Andrew Whitmore, an Associate Professor of Theology and author of 'Saintly Habits,' dives into the intricacies of moral theology. He emphasizes the role of reason in understanding virtue and the synergy between grace and human effort. The conversation highlights practical wisdom for everyday application of virtue, using engaging analogies to demonstrate moral complexities. Whitmore also discusses challenges in teaching virtue ethics, advocating for a hands-on approach to foster genuine moral growth among younger audiences.
Recognizing that virtue transcends mere rule-following fosters personal growth and a deeper understanding of moral life.
Utilizing practical strategies like prayer and mentorship can significantly enhance one's journey towards cultivating virtue.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Teaching Virtue
Teaching virtue can be difficult because individuals often perceive the moral life primarily in terms of rules and regulations. Many grow up believing that following rules equates to being a good person, overlooking the deeper, flourishing dimension of virtue. The initial step to overcoming this challenge involves helping individuals recognize that virtue is more than merely adhering to rules; it is about cultivating a richer moral life. Embracing this shift can be intimidating, but it is essential for personal growth and true understanding of what it means to be virtuous.
Analogies to Facilitate Understanding
Analogies can effectively illustrate the difference between living by rules and pursuing virtue. One analogy compares the understanding of health maintenance to moral growth; initially, individuals need rules to avoid harmful behaviors, much like children learn not to eat certain unsafe substances. However, as maturity develops, adults move beyond mere avoidance of danger to actively seeking a healthy lifestyle. Similarly, virtue involves internalizing moral guidelines, allowing individuals to act creatively and virtuously without being constrained by rules.
The Role of Reason in Virtue
Reason distinguishes human beings from other forms of life, enabling them to understand concepts of goodness and to make decisions geared toward attaining it. Unlike animals that act solely on instinct, humans can use their rational abilities to navigate complex moral landscapes. Through the practice of virtues such as temperance and courage, individuals can even shape their emotions and reactions to align with rational morality. This capacity for reasoning shows that the emotional aspect of human nature can be developed and refined to facilitate virtuous living.
Strategies for Cultivating Virtue
Cultivating virtue requires practical strategies, such as prayer, seeking the example of saints, and forming accountability partnerships. While prayer may appear simplistic, it is a fundamental step in inviting divine assistance to grow in virtue. Additionally, learning from the lives of virtuous individuals, particularly the saints, provides concrete examples of how to navigate ethical challenges. Lastly, having an accountability partner can help maintain motivation and correct any misperceptions about what constitutes virtuous behavior, thus reinforcing the commitment to moral growth.
What difference does reason make? How do we relate sanctity to virtue? How do we learn practical reasoning? How are the virtues connected? On this episode of Guestsplaining, Fr. Gregory and Fr. Bonaventure discuss moral theology more with Doctor Andrew Whitmore!
Andrew Whitmore, Ph.D. is an associate professor of theology and the Academic Dean at Christendom College in Front Royal, Virginia. He has taught moral theology at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as in formation programs for the permanent diaconate and in public talks to laity. He is the author of Saintly Habits: Aquinas' 7 Simple Strategies You Can Use to Grow in Virtue. Buy here: https://ascensionpress.com/products/saintly-habits-aquinas-7-simple-strategies-you-can-use-to-grow-in-virtue