Endurance and non-endurance: From the perspective of virtue ethics

Abstract

By analysing the two relevant psychological phenomena of “endurance” and “non-endurance,” this essay aims to reveal the ethical implications of a Confucian approach, namely regarding non-endurance as an impulse of primary virtue. Based on this case study, the author then explores the significance of moral cultivation or psychological training in establishing moral personality and the complexities of such a process. Meanwhile, “love” in Confucian ethics means sympathy for the inferior rather than affection for the revered. Hopefully, this study may deepen our understanding of virtue ethics.

摘要

通过对忍与不忍这两种相关的心理现象的分析, 可揭示儒家把不忍人之心作为首善之端加以强调的伦理学含义。 以此为例, 探讨修养功夫即心理训练琪琪对道德人格形成的重要性及复杂性, 进而可得出儒家伦理讲求的爱是对弱者的怜爱而非对崇敬者的热爱。 这项研究有助于深化我们对德性伦理的认识。