7 Discussion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

7 Discussion - Essay Example In this way the individual relies on his or her character. Philosophers such as Plato, Hume, Aristotle etc have discoursed on virtuous character yet there seem not to be an agreement on exactly what ought to be counted as virtuous behavior. According to this philosophers virtue can only be equated to knowledge thus one who has knowledge and especially so the knowledge of good is regarded to have virtuous character (McMurray, 2000). The fact the children are born with no sense whatsoever of right or wrong it is prudent to assert that this good judgment is acquired from the society. The child will be taught by society members a number of mannerisms deemed acceptable such as honesty, respect and live in harmony with the existing systems. Without the society and culture would mean that the child relies on instincts thus will only have to act in a way that is likely to be beneficial to him or her. The society has also ensured there is a way to reward virtuous behavior thus encouraging its members to be virtuous. There are many moral stories and the like which give examples of individuals that have prospered in the society as a result of being virtuous. In the same way others are encouraged to live a virtuous life such that they are able to benefit in a similar manner. It is not easy to live a virtuous life thus there is normally some obstacles one has to overcome. According to some of the virtue theorist, it is easy for human beings to practice vice especially when the society is reluctant to punish the behavior and encourage virtuous living. It is for this reason that there are laws of the land and the justice system to encourage the people to live in harmony with one another. Alternatively there are those opposed to this theory citing the fact that character is in born. There are times when one has to rely on his character to perform some acts which the society is opposed to.