There is an important relationship between prudence and virtue in Aristotle’s ethics. To fully understand his conception of virtue, it is necessary to understand his conception of prudence and how it relates to virtue. Describe the relationship between prudence and virtue, according to Aristotle. Does Aristotle think that prudence is a necessary component of virtue?
ANSWER
Aristotle’s ethical philosophy, as presented in his work “Nicomachean Ethics,” indeed emphasizes a significant relationship between prudence (or practical wisdom) and virtue. In Aristotle’s view, prudence is a crucial and necessary component of virtue. To understand this relationship, let’s delve into Aristotle’s conception of virtue and prudence and how they relate to each other:
1. **Virtue (Arete)**: For Aristotle, virtue is a central concept in ethics, and it is the means by which individuals achieve eudaimonia, which can be translated as “flourishing” or “the good life.” Virtue, according to Aristotle, is a state of character that involves striking a balance between two extremes, or vices. There are various virtues, each representing a different balance between these extremes. For example, courage is the virtue that lies between the vices of recklessness and cowardice.
2. **Prudence (Phronesis)**: Prudence, or practical wisdom, is one of the intellectual virtues in Aristotle’s ethical framework. It involves the ability to make practical and moral decisions by considering the specific circumstances of a situation and determining the right course of action. Prudence is not just about knowing what is virtuous in an abstract sense but also knowing how to apply virtues in particular situations.
Now, let’s explore the relationship between prudence and virtue:
– **Prudence as a Guide**: Aristotle sees prudence as a guiding virtue that helps individuals discern the mean between excess and deficiency in various situations. Without practical wisdom, it is challenging to determine the appropriate action in specific circumstances. Prudence provides the necessary judgment to apply virtues effectively.
– **Application of Virtue**: Virtues, on their own, can be abstract ideals. Prudence enables individuals to translate these virtues into concrete actions and decisions. It helps individuals understand how to act virtuously in the complex and varied situations they encounter in life.
– **Balancing Virtues**: Prudence also plays a role in balancing different virtues. Sometimes, virtues may come into conflict with each other. Prudence helps individuals navigate these conflicts and find the best course of action in situations where multiple virtues are at stake.
– **Moral Virtue and Practical Wisdom**: Aristotle views moral virtue as a disposition to act in a certain way, while prudence is the intellectual capacity that informs and directs this disposition. In other words, prudence guides moral virtue, making it more than just a matter of habit but a result of deliberate and thoughtful choice.
In conclusion, Aristotle considers prudence as an essential and integral part of virtue. Virtue alone is not enough to lead a virtuous life; practical wisdom is needed to apply and balance virtues effectively in real-life situations. Prudence is the intellectual virtue that enables individuals to make morally sound decisions and pursue eudaimonia. Therefore, Aristotle firmly believes that prudence is a necessary component of virtue and ethical excellence.