Virtue (Key Concepts in Philosophy) by Heather Battaly

Key Concepts in Philosophy (Polity)

by Heather D. Battaly

What is a virtue, and how are virtues different from vices? Do people with virtues lead better lives than the rest of us? Do they know more? Can we acquire virtues if so, how? In this lively and engaging introduction to this core topic, Heather Battaly argues that there is more than one kind of virtue.

Genres: Philosophy

Paperback

First published January 21, 2014

Reviews

[E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Last spring I picked this book as a text for my sophomore ethics class this semester. I had not read it all the way through until we got to it in class. Battaly gives a nice summary of the current state of virtue theory (both in ethics and epistemology) and presents the theory with contemporary examples that engaged my students. I found it easy to supplement with more content about the various thinkers and ideas she discusses.

She also makes her own arguments in the book, which gave our class opportunities to discuss and critique. For example, Battaly believes that virtue is neither sufficient nor necessary for living well.

[Wm. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book. Whether you are new to virtue theory or an old hand this book is well worth the time.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting overview of virtue ethics and epistemology -- lots to think about and play with (and since the author is a friend of mine, lots to talk about, too!)