The Virtues of Aristotle

Originally published in 1986. Both moral philosophers and philosophical psychologists need to answer the question what is a virtue? and the best answer so far give is that of Aristotle. This book is a rigorous exposition of that answer. The elements of Aristotles doctrine of virtue are scattered throughout his writings; this book reconstructs his complex and comprehensive doctrine in one place. It also covers Aristotles views about choice, character, emotions and the role of pleasure and pain in virtue. The celebrated function (ergon) is considered carefully as well as the doctrine of virtue being related to Aristotles metaphysics and categories.