Nicomachean Ethics

            Evaluating the actions of an individual relies to some degree on whether the conduct of the particular individual is voluntary or not (Ross, 1999).  A voluntary action is that that is conducted with one’s consent and willingness while an involuntary is that conducted under certain pressure and causes pain.  However, if a person is under pressure and performs unfavorably this can be judged as voluntary.  If a person does something with knowledge and fails to suffer, this can be described as an involuntary conduct (Ross, 1999).

The best moral conduct measure is options because contrary to individual action options is made in a voluntary mode.  Individuals develop options in regard to what means they should utilize in achieving their desired aims (Ross, 1999).   This is referred to as deliberation because an individual makes consideration of their desires and then reason in the manner they should be achieved.  This, therefore, means that deliberation comes before the occurrence of options.  In short, an individual with a good character is bound to choose that strategy that is for the good. However, such an individual is capable of misunderstanding things because they are focused on achieving well at all times.  An individual with a bad character cannot state that the bad character influences their incapability to control themselves because they develop the decisions voluntarily (Ross, 1999).

Courage is the virtue that is required in making options. This is a difficult thing to achieve because it requires one to weigh the available options and opt for the best even if it risks their desires or priorities.  This is because courage is the confidence of facing fears in regard to developing options.  Individual actions and options can be utilized in judging their moral nature (Ross, 1999).

Reference

Ross W.D. (1999).  Aristotle: Nicomachean Ethics. Batoche Books, Kitchener.