Classical Ethics (Aristotle): Case Studies with Discussion Questions
Classical Ethics, particularly the philosophy of Aristotle (384–322 BCE), teaches that ethical living is not simply about following rules or calculating consequences. Instead, it is about developing a virtuous character through consistent practice and wise decision-making. Aristotle believed that good habits gradually shape a person's character, enabling individuals to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.
For college students, Aristotle's ethical framework remains highly relevant. Every day presents opportunities to choose honesty over cheating, responsibility over convenience, courage over fear, and generosity over selfishness. These repeated choices gradually shape the kind of person one becomes.
"The good for man is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue."
— Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book I
Learning Objectives
After completing these case studies, students should be able to:
- Explain the central ideas of Aristotle's Classical Ethics.
- Identify virtues and vices demonstrated in everyday situations.
- Apply the concept of the Golden Mean in ethical decision-making.
- Reflect on how repeated actions shape moral character.
- Develop practical ethical judgment in personal, academic, and professional life.
Understanding Aristotle's Classical Ethics
According to Aristotle, the ultimate goal of human life is eudaimonia, often translated as "human flourishing" or "living well." Flourishing is achieved not by wealth, popularity, or pleasure alone, but through the lifelong cultivation of virtues.
Virtues are positive character traits developed through repeated practice. Examples include honesty, courage, generosity, patience, justice, humility, and self-control. Every virtue lies between two harmful extremes, known as the Golden Mean.
Examples of the Golden Mean
| Virtue | Deficiency | Excess |
|---|---|---|
| Courage | Cowardice | Recklessness |
| Generosity | Stinginess | Wastefulness |
| Confidence | Self-doubt | Arrogance |
| Honesty | Dishonesty | Brutal bluntness |
Case Study 1: The AI-Generated Assignment
The Situation
Maria has three major assignments due in the same week. Feeling overwhelmed, she copies an AI-generated essay and submits it as entirely her own work without revision or citation. She receives one of the highest grades in class.
Her classmates admire her performance, while Maria secretly feels guilty. She wonders whether the good grade was worth compromising her integrity.
Applying Aristotle's Ethics
Aristotle would ask not merely whether Maria violated a rule, but what kind of character her action develops. Repeated dishonest choices gradually cultivate the vice of dishonesty rather than the virtue of integrity.
A virtuous student would use AI responsibly—as a learning aid, brainstorming partner, or editing assistant—while producing original academic work.
Discussion Questions
- Which virtues and vices are demonstrated in Maria's decision?
- How does repeated academic dishonesty affect one's character?
- How could Maria have practiced the virtue of responsibility?
- What would the Golden Mean suggest regarding responsible AI use?
- How can universities encourage both AI literacy and academic integrity?
Case Study 2: The Group Project Leader
The Situation
Jerome becomes the leader of his research group. Two members contribute very little, while the others complete nearly all the work. Jerome considers removing the inactive members from the project but also recognizes they may be facing personal difficulties.
Applying Aristotle's Ethics
Aristotle would encourage practical wisdom (phronesis) rather than impulsive reactions. Justice requires accountability, while compassion calls for understanding. A virtuous leader balances both.
Jerome could first seek honest dialogue, clarify responsibilities, and provide reasonable opportunities for improvement before making final decisions.
Discussion Questions
- What virtues should Jerome demonstrate?
- How does practical wisdom differ from simply following rules?
- What would justice require in this situation?
- Can compassion and accountability coexist?
- How might this experience shape Jerome's future leadership?
Case Study 3: Social Media and Courage
The Situation
A fake story about a classmate spreads rapidly on social media. Many students share it without verifying the facts. Angela knows the story is false but fears being criticized if she speaks publicly.
Applying Aristotle's Ethics
Courage is the virtue between cowardice and recklessness. Remaining silent to avoid criticism reflects fear, while attacking others aggressively reflects recklessness. Courage means respectfully defending the truth despite possible criticism.
Discussion Questions
- What virtue is most important in this case?
- How should Angela balance courage and prudence?
- How does digital citizenship relate to Aristotle's ethics?
- What long-term habits are formed through online behavior?
- What practical action demonstrates ethical courage?
Case Study 4: Returning the Lost Wallet
The Situation
After class, Kevin discovers a wallet containing ₱8,000 and several identification cards. No one else notices it. Kevin recently lost his part-time job and desperately needs money for tuition.
He struggles between keeping the money and returning the wallet to its owner.
Applying Aristotle's Ethics
Honesty and justice require returning what belongs to another person. Aristotle would argue that integrity contributes more to long-term human flourishing than temporary financial gain obtained through dishonesty.
Discussion Questions
- Which virtues are challenged in Kevin's situation?
- Why is honesty valuable even when no one is watching?
- How does integrity contribute to human flourishing?
- Would keeping the money strengthen or weaken Kevin's character?
- How might repeated small dishonest actions influence future decisions?
Case Study 5: The Internship Opportunity
The Situation
Nicole learns that her uncle can help her secure a prestigious internship without following the regular application process. Other qualified students must compete fairly for limited positions.
Applying Aristotle's Ethics
The virtue of justice promotes fairness and equal opportunity. Although family loyalty is important, Aristotle would encourage decisions that contribute to the common good and preserve institutional integrity.
Discussion Questions
- What ethical virtues are involved?
- How does favoritism affect justice?
- How should Nicole balance gratitude and fairness?
- What would practical wisdom recommend?
- How does personal integrity strengthen public trust?
Reflection Activity
Choose one case study and answer the following questions:
- Which virtue would be most difficult for you to practice?
- Why do you think this virtue is challenging?
- What habit could you begin developing this week?
- How would this habit contribute to your long-term character?
Connecting Aristotle's Ethics with Outcomes-Based Education (OBE), 21st-Century Skills, and AI Literacy
These case studies encourage students to move beyond memorizing ethical concepts toward demonstrating ethical reasoning in authentic situations. This aligns with Outcomes-Based Education, where learning is measured through observable competencies and responsible performance.
Students also strengthen essential 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, communication, collaboration, leadership, digital citizenship, ethical AI use, reflective judgment, and responsible decision-making. Aristotle's emphasis on character formation reminds learners that technological competence must be accompanied by wisdom and integrity.
Conclusion
Aristotle's Classical Ethics continues to provide valuable guidance for contemporary life because it emphasizes the development of character rather than isolated actions. Every ethical decision contributes to the kind of person we become.
Whether in the classroom, workplace, online communities, or family life, cultivating virtues such as honesty, courage, justice, generosity, and practical wisdom helps individuals flourish while contributing positively to society. Aristotle reminds us that ethical excellence is not achieved overnight but through consistent practice, thoughtful reflection, and responsible action.
Sources & Documents Referenced
- Aristotle. Nicomachean Ethics. Translated by Terence Irwin. Hackett Publishing.
- Aristotle. Nicomachean Ethics. Translated by W. D. Ross. Oxford University Press.
- Kraut, Richard. Aristotle on the Human Good. Princeton University Press.
- Hursthouse, Rosalind. On Virtue Ethics. Oxford University Press.
- American Philosophical Association. Educational resources on ethics and virtue theory.
Gentle Educational Disclaimer
This material is provided for educational purposes to support ethics instruction, classroom discussion, and personal reflection. The case studies are fictional but reflect realistic situations commonly encountered by students. They are intended to encourage critical thinking and ethical reasoning rather than prescribe a single correct response. When facing real-life legal, medical, psychological, academic, or professional concerns, consult qualified professionals and follow the policies and regulations of your institution. The inclusion of AI-related examples promotes responsible, transparent, and ethical use of technology in learning.
Case Study 5: The Internship Opportunity – Group 5, Block M. BSED FILIPINO/VALUES EDUCATION
ReplyDeleteDiscussion Questions:
1. What ethical virtues are involved?
Answered by: Grace Hetallia
Ethical virtues are good character traits like honesty, respect, and responsibility that guide us
to make right choices and treat others well. They shape our daily actions, build trust, and help
us live as kind, fair, and dependable members of our community.
2. How does favoritism affect justice?
Answered by: Mazzie Yursua Dasig
Favoritism affects justice because it gives one person a special advantage over others because
of personal relationships, and connections. This is unfair to other applicants who have the same
skills and worked hard just to qualify for the internship. It takes away equal opportunities and
can make people lose trust in the selection process. The justice is only achieved when everyone
is treated equally, fairly and chosen based on their skills, abilities, qualifications, and hard
work.
3. How should Nicole balance gratitude and fairness?
Answered by: Jessamay S. Neri & Rickrine B. Montecillo
Nicole should balance gratitude and fairness by appreciating her uncle’s willingness to help
without accepting special treatment. Instead, she should go through the regular application
process like the other qualified applicants. This allows her to show gratitude while ensuring
that everyone has an equal opportunity to compete fairly. By earning the internship through
her own qualifications, Nicole demonstrates honesty, fairness, justice and integrity while
respecting the rights of others.
4. What would Practical Wisdom recommend?
Answered by: Blesy Kate Dominguez Practical wisdom would recommend that Nicole follow what is right by choosing fairness
and following the proper application process. Although her uncle wants to help her, accepting
special treatment could give her an unfair advantage. Practical wisdom would advise Nicole
to think carefully before choosing what to do. She should consider the feelings and
opportunities of other qualified internship applicants. This gives all qualified students an
equal opportunity to compete for the internship. By doing so, Nicole can maintain her
integrity and make a fair and responsible decision.
5. How does personal integrity strengthen public trust?
Answered by: Jheyanne Cris Lino
Personal integrity strengthens public trust because people trust those who are honest and fair.
When Nicole follows the rules, she shows that success should be earned through hard work,
not through favoritism. Her good character sets a positive example for others and helps
people believe that everyone is treated fairly. This builds trust in the system and supports the
common good.
Case Study 5: The Internship Opportunity – Group 5, Block M.
DeleteBSED FILIPINO/VALUES EDUCATION
Discussion Questions:
1. What ethical virtues are involved?
Answered by: Grace Hetallia
Ethical virtues are good character traits like honesty, respect, and responsibility that guide us to make the right choices and treat others well. They shape our daily actions, build trust, and help us live as kind, fair, and dependable members of our community.
2. How does favoritism affect justice?
Answered by: Mazzie Yursua Dasig
Favoritism affects justice because it gives one person a special advantage over others due to personal relationships and connections. This is unfair to other applicants who have the same skills and worked hard to qualify for the internship. It takes away equal opportunities and can make people lose trust in the selection process. Justice is achieved only when everyone is treated equally, fairly, and chosen based on their skills, abilities, qualifications, and hard work.
3. How should Nicole balance gratitude and fairness?
Answered by: Jessamay S. Neri & Rickrine B. Montecillo
Nicole should balance gratitude and fairness by appreciating her uncle's willingness to help without accepting special treatment. Instead, she should go through the regular application process like the other qualified applicants. This allows her to show gratitude while ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to compete fairly. By earning the internship through her own qualifications, Nicole demonstrates honesty, fairness, justice, and integrity while respecting the rights of others.
4. What would Practical Wisdom recommend?
Answered by: Blesy Kate Mamburao
Practical wisdom would recommend that Nicole follow what is right by choosing fairness and following the proper application process. Although her uncle wants to help her, accepting special treatment could give her an unfair advantage. Practical wisdom would advise Nicole to think carefully before choosing what to do. She should consider the feelings and opportunities of other qualified internship applicants. This gives all qualified students an equal opportunity to compete for the internship. By doing so, Nicole can maintain her integrity and make a fair and responsible decision.
5. How does personal integrity strengthen public trust?
Answered by: Jheyanne Cris Lino
Personal integrity strengthens public trust because people trust those who are honest and fair. When Nicole follows the rules, she shows that success should be earned through hard work, not through favoritism. Her good character sets a positive example for others and helps people believe that everyone is treated fairly. This builds trust in the system and supports the common good.
P.S. Please disregard our first comment, Sir. The formatting, spacing, and member names were affected after commenting. Kindly refer to this updated comment instead. Thank you po.