Virtue and Modern Living
Without virtue, happiness cannot be (Thomas Jefferson)
The philosophy of virtue has a long history, going back to ancient times. The majority of philosophers in the classical world had much to say on the topic. Underlying it though are two aims– a desire for happiness and living ‘the good life’.
Both continue to be at the forefront of people’s motivations but ideas about how to achieve them have shifted over time. Wealth has always driven people to some degree but we are in a world where riches are seen as the ultimate means of happiness. In much of the on-line ‘guru’ type content, the ability to make money (particularly working 20 hours a day, forsaking all else) is seen as a, and possibly THE, virtue. The one thing ultimately worth pursuing.
I became seriously interested in virtue as a means to happiness when I discovered the work of Alex Havard and the Virtuous Leadership Institute. As I studied and put what I was learning into practice (in particular the 4 classical virtues of Prudence, Fortitude, Justice and Temperance), I started to understand why this had for millennia been seen as the key to personal development and a genuine happiness.
My company Magnanimatus Coaching has started working with individuals, schools and businesses to look at how virtue will enhance their lives. With individuals a large chunk of that is, at least initially, working out the degree to which their goals fit with the character they want. It is remarkable how many have created objectives based on what they think society says they should. A large chunk of work involves helping people establish their mission – their unique purpose – and exercising virtue to achieve it.
Our education work focuses on imparting knowledge and practical examples of how students might practice it. We work with teachers, developing strategies to help encourage virtue with students. We are starting to work with businesses to look at what virtuous leadership looks like in their context, how virtue benefits their operation and how to encourage virtuous behaviour in the workplace (as opposed to simply having rules).
If you’d like to know more, please email andrew@magnanimatuscoaching.com.