What is considered a benefit of virtue ethics?

The merit of virtue ethics lies in its emphasis on character and the moral virtues that individuals should cultivate, which translates to providing flexibility in decision-making. This ethical approach encourages individuals to consider their personal values and the virtues they aspire to embody, rather than rigidly adhering to a set of predefined rules or regulations.

In practical terms, this means that when faced with ethical dilemmas, individuals influenced by virtue ethics can adapt their responses based on the situation and their understanding of what a virtuous person would do. Unlike rule-based ethics, which can restrict decision-making to specific parameters, virtue ethics allows for a more nuanced approach that takes into account the complexities of human behavior and relationships.

This flexibility can lead to more thoughtful and context-sensitive decisions, as it prioritizes the development of moral character over mere compliance with rules or laws, fostering a deeper connection to ethical behavior in various contexts.