Why Doesn't Hursthouse Consider the Moral Problem of Abortion in Terms

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The Answer is Rosalind Hursthouse, a renowned virtue ethicist, approaches the moral problem of abortion not in terms of a general rule or principle but through the lens of virtue ethics. Virtue ethics emphasizes the character and virtues of the moral agent rather than the formulation of moral rules or the consequences of actions. Hursthouse argues that the moral complexity of abortion cannot be adequately addressed by simply applying a rule or principle; instead, it requires a nuanced understanding of the virtues, the context, and the particularities of each situation.

Hursthouse's approach to abortion focuses on the virtues that a 'good' person would exhibit in the context of a decision about abortion. She considers factors such as the woman's capacity for motherhood, the potential for a flourishing life for both the woman and the fetus, and the responsibilities and relationships involved. Her view is that the right action in any given case will be the action that a virtuous person, possessing practical wisdom, would take in those circumstances.

The strength of Hursthouse's virtue theory approach lies in its flexibility and its attention to the complexities of human life. It avoids the rigidity of rule-based systems, which can lead to dogmatic or overly simplistic conclusions that do not account for the rich context of real-life situations. By focusing on virtues and character, her approach allows for moral deliberation that is sensitive to the particulars of each case, which can be seen as more humane and realistic.

On the other hand, critics might argue that this approach has weaknesses. One potential weakness is that it may not provide clear guidance for action, as what constitutes a virtuous response can be subject to interpretation and may vary from person to person. This could lead to inconsistency and uncertainty in moral decision-making. Additionally, without general rules or principles, it may be difficult to establish consensus or to critique actions effectively, as judgments are grounded in the character of the individual, which is more subjective.

In conclusion, whether Hursthouse's avoidance of general rules or principles in considering the moral problem of abortion is seen as a strength or a weakness of her virtue theory approach depends on one's perspective. Those who value flexibility and context-sensitivity in moral reasoning may see it as a strength, while those who seek more definitive guidance and consistency may view it as a weakness. Virtue ethics offers a distinctive and rich framework for moral reflection, but its practical application can be challenging and may require a balance with other ethical considerations.

Why Doesn't Hursthouse Consider the Moral Problem of Abortion in Terms

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