A comparative study of Ibn Miskawayh’s and Michael Slote’s Virtue Ethics

Abstract

Virtue ethics is one of the normative ethical theories that, unlike deontological theory or utilitarianism, emphasizes on virtuousness. Ibn Miskawayh’s virtue ethics is influenced by Aristotle, and Michael Slot is influenced by Hume's views. A comparison between these two theories reveals the similarities and differences of their different readings of virtue. The role of Happiness in virtue ethics is one of the differences. In explaining virtue ethics Ibn Miskawayh emphasizes happiness while Slote rejects it. While rationalism has a fundamental place in the theory of Ibn Miskawayh, there is no such a place for it in the emotivist view of Slot. Altogether, Ibn Miskawayh’s theory is more coherent and logical due to its emphasis on happiness and rationality. Slote's emphasis on emotivism is one of the weak points of his theory which has false consequences.