Virtue ethics, the 'Analects', and the problem of commensurability (Structural similaritie

Author:Slinglerland, E

Article Title:Virtue ethics, the 'Analects', and the problem of commensurability (Structural similarities between Aristotelian and Confucian conceptions of self-cultivation)

Abstract:
In support of the thesis that virtue ethics allows for a more comprehensive and consistent interpretation of the Analects than other possible models, the author uses a structural outline of a virtue ethic (derived from Alasdair MacIntyre's account of the Aristotelian tradition) to organize a discussion of the text. The resulting interpretation focuses attention on the religious aspects of Confucianism and accounts for aspects of the text that are otherwise difficult to explain. In addition, the author argues that the structural similarities between the Aristotelian and Confucian conceptions of self-cultivation indicate a dimension of commensurability between the two traditions, despite very real variations in specific content. Finally, the author suggests how crosscultural commensurability, in general, can be understood on a theoretical level.

Keywords: Chinese philosophy; comparative ethics; Confucianism; Confucius; virtue ethics

DOI: 10.1111/0384-9694.00070

Source:JOURNAL OF RELIGIOUS ETHICS

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