Aristotle's virtue ethics as a conceptual framework for the study and practice of social work in modern times. Issue 6 (2nd November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Papouli, Eleni
• Is Part Of: European journal of social work. Volume 22:Issue 6(2019)
• Page Start: 921
• Page End: 934
• Publication Date: 2019-11-02
• Subjects: Aristotle -- virtue ethics -- social work -- eudaimonia -- golden mean -- cardinal virtues; Αριστοτέλης -- αρεταϊκή ηθική -- κοινωνική εργασία -- ευδαιμονία -- μεσότητα -- βασικές αρετές; Social service -- Europe -- Periodicals; Social service -- Vocational guidance -- Europe -- Periodicals; 361.3209405
• DOI: 10.1080/13691457.2018.1461072
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1369-1457

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This paper aims to highlight the importance of Aristotle's model of virtue ethics for today's social workers and students, as it can help them to build an ethical character and promote ethical conduct in both their personal and professional lives. In doing so, the paper first provides an overview of virtue ethics theory and its revival over the last decades in western societies and then, discusses the basic tenets of Aristotle's ethics theory in relation to the social work profession. In addition, the main types of Aristotelian virtues are presented including cardinal virtues (courage, justice, practical wisdom/phronesis, temperance) and the concepts of eudaimonia and golden mean in relation to their applications in social work practice are described. The paper briefly explains cardinal virtues and provides a case example of moral courage that will help social workers and students to better understand the concept of Aristotle's golden mean. Finally, it discusses and responds to the main criticisms of Aristotle's virtue ethics, considering alternative ways to discuss and think about this approach to social work.