Alasdair MacIntyre, a celebrated philosopher and Catholic convert, has passed away at the age of 96. He was known for his influential work in moral and political philosophy, particularly in revitalizing virtue ethics. His most famous work, 'After Virtue,' significantly impacted contemporary philosophical discourse. MacIntyre's intellectual journey included atheism, Marxism, Anglicanism, and ultimately Roman Catholicism. His legacy will continue through his writings and the institutions he was affiliated with, such as the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture at the University of Notre Dame.
12 days ago
Alasdair MacIntyre, a towering figure in moral philosophy, has died at the age of 96 1 2 3 4. He is best known for reviving virtue ethics and for his influential book, "After Virtue" 2 3 4. His work has profoundly impacted generations of students and academics 2.
Born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1929, MacIntyre held master's degrees from the University of Manchester and Oxford 2. He began his academic career in 1951 and taught at various universities in the UK and the US 2. These included Brandeis, Boston University, Vanderbilt, and the University of Notre Dame, where he was a permanent senior distinguished research fellow 2 3 4. Despite never earning a doctorate, he received 10 honorary doctorates 2.
MacIntyre's seminal 1981 work, "After Virtue," critiqued modern moral fragmentation 2. It advocated for a return to Aristotelian ethics, emphasizing virtue over utilitarian or deontological frameworks 2. The book is considered a 20th-century philosophical classic and a cornerstone of the restored school of virtue ethics 2 3 4. "After Virtue" has had a widespread impact on the world of ideas 3 4.
MacIntyre's intellectual and spiritual journey was marked by significant shifts 2 3 4. He explored communism, analytical philosophy, Anglicanism, and atheism before embracing Roman Catholicism in 1983 2 3. His conversion was influenced by Thomism and the writings of Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI) 2. MacIntyre described himself as a "Thomistic Aristotelian," blending the philosophies of Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas 3 4.
MacIntyre's work has had a lasting impact on moral philosophy and Catholic thought 2 3 4. He is widely regarded as the most important philosopher in modern virtue ethics 2 3 4. Colleagues and former students remember him for his intellect, wit, and genuine concern for others 2 3 4. His emphasis on tradition-based inquiry and virtuous thought will continue to influence the field for centuries to come 3 4.
How does Catholic tradition inform virtue ethics?
Catholic tradition significantly informs virtue ethics by integrating classical philosophical concepts with theological virtues and a focus on the ultimate end of union with God. Here's how:
In summary, Catholic tradition enriches virtue ethics by combining classical philosophical virtues with theological virtues, emphasizing the role of reason and faith in moral conduct, and orienting all virtues towards the ultimate goal of union with God.