Relevant Aspects of Aristotle’s Virtue Theory

Consider the following scenario: A burning building, relatively structurally sound, is engulfed in flames, with 4 small children trapped inside. There are two people who must decide how to respond to the situation: Abuela — an 80-year-old misanthropic, pyrophobic, Luddite, who saw her mother burn to death in a fire when she was younger. She’s in relatively good health, although she uses a cane. She has a cell phone for emergencies, but she hates it. Domingo Ash — a 30-year, world-renowned firefighter who is on his way back from the latest firefighting championships. He has all his gear with him but is tired from the demands of the recent championships and, to be honest, a bit burned out from relentless firefighting.
Explain, thoroughly, the relevant aspects of Aristotle’s virtue theory. In other words, what would Aristotle think is (morally) at stake in this scenario?
Explain how both Abuela and Domingo Ash should respond to the situation of the burning building. Would Aristotle require both Abuela and Domingo Ash to do the same thing? Why or why not?
Make an argument for whether or not Aristotle’s moral guidance is good. If you think it’s good, explain why. If you think it’s not good, explain why. Be sure to thoroughly explain your assessment here.

 

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