The Six-Virtue Definition is Useful

Alfie Kohn made the following comment in an email exchange about what it means to be educated: “Ultimately, of course, this isn’t an empirical question; one definition can’t be more true than another, only more useful.”

His point explains why so many definitions leave me cold — they are useless. It also suggests why we don’t bother to define “educated.” Since “one definition can’t be more true than another,” why debate?

I thank Kohn for his insight. It inspired me to argue that philosophy is more useful than social science in my three-part NurtureSchlock blog:

(http://www.sixvirtues.com/2010/02/26/nurtureschlock-part-1/, http://www.sixvirtues.com/2010/02/26/nurtureschlock-part-2/, http://www.sixvirtues.com/2010/02/26/nurtureschlock-part-3/ ).

This post explains that understanding the context of the six-virtue definition makes it eminently useful. First, the six-virtues refer to what makes us human — intellect, character, and spirit. Second, the first of each virtue pair is a capacity and the second is an ability to act. Third, we have to understand how each virtue is defined. Fourth, we have to understand that they are integrated and interconnected in all human situations. More explanation is at: http://www.sixvirtues.com/2009/10/28/how-are-the-six-virtues-defined/

Finally, we have to understand that, according to the six-virtue definition, making any situation better is simple. If a situation is fraught with ignorance and intellectual incompetence, understanding and imagination are needed. When weakness and fear are apparent, strong character and courage are needed. If pride and selfishness are present, humility and generosity will make things better.

These six virtues always make situations better, and their opposite six vices always make them worse. That is why this definition is so useful.

For example, there could be a variety of reasons why a student scores low on a test. One might be that the teacher used inappropriate materials or methods. In this case the teacher ought to bring more understanding and imagination to the situation. Another might be that the student is surrounded by selfish people, whose demands prevent him/her from studying. More generosity is needed in this student’s life. A third possibility is that the student did not study hard enough. He/She needs to bring to bear greater strength of character.

When life is seen through a six virtue lens, the improvement path is always clear — bring to bear the virtues that are lacking. That is why this definition is so useful.

Click on “Leave a Comment” to reply. You may want to suggest a more useful definition of “educated.” Or you may want to argue that not everybody wants their children to develop these six specific virtues, or that the separation of church and state is violated by modeling and teaching them.