The Misuse of Virtue Ethics

The text “Rioting as Flourishing?” offers some provocative insight into how the misuse of Virtue Ethics only further “marginalizes and stigmatizes” those of certain groups. The text states “ Theorists concerned with oppression and liberation are often wary of how paradigms of virtue get wielded as a tool to further marginalize or stigmatize certain groups of people.” This statement resonates perfectly with Black Liberation Theology, a doctrine founded by James H. Cone. Black Liberation Theology is a social and theological movement within African-American Christianity that emphasizes God's concern for the liberation of oppressed people. Similar to “rioting as Flourishing” many of the principles and teachings of Black Liberation Theology focus on addressing the systematic oppression and injustices experienced by African American communities. At the heart of Black Liberation Theology is the recognition that historical and structural injustices have marginalized and stigmatized Black people in America. Virtue ethics, when misused, can magnify this marginalization by reinforcing harmful stereotypes and skewed ethical hierarchies. Nonetheless, Black Liberation Theology seeks to challenge and transform these unethical standards. One key aspect of Black Liberation Theology is its emphasis on solidarity with the marginalized. It recognizes that virtues should not be defined solely by the dominant culture’s norms, but should also include virtues that emerge from the unique experiences of oppressed communities. This approach challenges the narrow view of virtue ethics by highlighting the virtues of resilience, courage, and community solidarity that have been essential in the face of systemic racism. Fundamentally, Black Liberation Theology and the concerns raised in “Rioting as Flourishing?” converge in their recognition of the potential harm caused by the misuse of virtue ethics. Both highlight the importance of reevaluating ethical frameworks in the context of oppression and stigmatization, emphasizing the need for inclusive and culturally sensitive perspectives that empower marginalized communities rather than further marginalizing them.