Ethics for Everyone

Moral wisdom for the modern world

Michael W. Austin Ph.D.

Why Virtue Ethics Matters

Many philosophers, past and present, contend that character is the most fundamental dimension of the moral life. This is a theory known as virtue ethics.

Communities of Critical Thinking

Advice from bell hooks on how to become better critical thinkers together.

Is an Armed Society Really a Polite Society?

Our motivation for treating others with respect should not be the fear of getting shot.

Do Guns Really Make Us Free?

Some arguments made by gun rights advocates would curtail important freedoms.

Solving the Problem of Polarization

Becoming more compassionate is a crucial first step to solving the problem of polarization.

The First Step Toward Better Character

If we want to cultivate virtue in ourselves, it is important to flee our vices.

Drinking and Positive Psychology

The traits of prudence and self-regulation can help us keep alcohol in its proper place as we pursue a good and happy life.

Drinking Virtuously: Why Do You Drink?

Asking ourselves why we drink can be a useful exercise in self-reflection. Our answers may be telling.

The Cure for Belief in Conspiracy Theories

Belief in conspiracy theories exhibits a failure of intellectual humility. This virtue of the mind can help us avoid these and other irrational beliefs.

The Duty to Love

Soren Kierkegaard's thoughts on love are worth considering because they challenge much of our status quo thinking about the nature of love.

Lessons From Lasso

What's so great about the television show "Ted Lasso"? It paints a picture of authentic love in a flawed but caring human community.

How We Can All Be More Like Socrates

How did Socrates set an example as a role model in the quest for truth and how can we sort out issues not tied to sound evidence?

How the Practice of Gratitude Can Improve Your Life

Gratitude is good, and it is also good for us.

Overcoming Barriers to Truth

We can fall prey to deception due to the influence of many things. Here I focus on our desire for wealth and social status.

Why We Believe Lies, and How to Resist

Lies are everywhere, including inside of us. What can we do about it?

What's Wrong With Stand Your Ground Laws?

Violence should only be used as a last resort, but stand-your-ground laws approve of lethal violence when it is not needed to protect human life.

Contradictions and Arguments from a Pro-Gun Politician

Examining arguments about gun rights.

A Stoic Priority

Character seems in short supply these days. But the Stoics would urge all of us, no matter what is happening around us and to us, to not put off the life of wisdom and virtue.

Licensing Parents?

What can we do to reduce child abuse and neglect?

Spirituality and Our Humanity

Religion or a spiritual tradition that just affirms us without challenging us to help others as well as become better human beings is flawed.

What's Wrong With the Death Penalty?

The death penalty is back in our national consciousness. What is wrong with this practice, morally speaking?

Just a Little Patience

Patience is a virtue, sometimes a difficult one. Fortunately, if we are intentional about it, we can develop this character trait.

Rhetorical Nonviolence

The practice of rhetorical nonviolence could revolutionize our civil discourse both online and in the real world.

Let Them Play

I want my players and young athletes across the country to be safe, happy, and healthy. I think we can do that and let them play.

Logic and Black Lives Matter

A little bit of logic can help us understand "Black lives matter."

True Freedom and the Quarantine Protests

We should use our freedom well, as a means of caring for others. Such freedom always calls for sacrifice.

When Going to Church Is Immoral

Some pastors are defying government restrictions and holding worship gatherings. Some governors are allowing this. What are we to make of this, morally speaking? 

Ethics in a Pandemic Age

We must look for ways to show generosity and gratitude to others. If we do, we might get through this pandemic with both our health and humanity intact.

Trump, Iran, and the Ethics of War

The news cycle runs quickly, but we must look at recent events in Iran. The responsibilities that come with the power to command the U.S. military must not be taken lightly.

Stoic Balance

We need to balance our attitudes toward activity and rest. We need a mindset that helps us balance the pace of our lives.

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