[[alternative]]MacIntyre's Viewpoint on virtue Ethics and Its Implication for Moral Education

Abstract

[[abstract]]The purpose of this study is to explore MacIntyre’s view on virtue ethics and its implication for moral education. In order to understand his theoretical framework, this study begins with his life background and works. Then, this study discusses about the failure of enlightenment and the important concepts of virtue ethics. In the end, this study examines the concepts of virtue to expound its implication for moral education. The conclusions of the study are as follows: 1.MacIntyre concludes that historical narrative is important in the understanding of virtue ethics. 2.McaIntyre demonstrates that modern moral conflict results from the failure of enlightenment. The moral dilemma is between Nietzsche and Aristotle, according to MacIntyre we should adopt Aristotle’s view. 3.The concepts and content of virtue ethics change over time. The historically influenced virtue ethics can only be fully understood with the practice of its concept, the description of personal life and tradition. 4.Based on MacIntyre’s criticism on the failure of enlightenment and the virtue ethics he constructed, we find the similarities between MacIntyre’s virtue ethics and the concepts of ethics in Confucianism. We suggest that under the influence of modernity moral education should be adjusted and reconsidered. Concluded from above, my suggestion in moral education are as follows: 1.Moral Education should emphasize more on traditional Chinese culture. 2.The nourishment of character is mainly based on education of daily life. 3.We should put equal emphasis both on teaching by example and precept. 4.Learning should be based on social context. 5.We should understand student’s life world.