After Virtue

Alasdair MacIntyre's After Virtue revolutionises the landscape of moral philosophy by meticulously analysing the roots and consequences of the decline in moral discourse. The narrative embarks on an intellectual journey, beginning with a bleak depiction of contemporary moral debates which, MacIntyre argues, are fragmented and incoherent. As the plot unfolds, he traces this crisis back to the Enlightenment period, claiming that the attempt to create a rational foundation for morality during this era ultimately failed, leading to the disarray observed in modern ethical discussions. He contends that the Enlightenment project severed morality from its original context and communal practices, leaving behind a disjointed moral framework.

In his search for solutions, MacIntyre turns to the rich tradition of Aristotelian ethics, proposing a return to the concept of virtue as the key to restoring coherence and meaning in moral discourse. By reviving Aristotle's emphasis on virtues, communal life, and the notion of the good life, MacIntyre seeks to re-establish a moral philosophy that is deeply rooted in historical context and communal practice. He explores various forms of ethical thought and dissect how they failed to provide a solid foundation for morality, moving towards his argument that virtues cultivated within communities oriented towards a shared conception of the good are essential for a coherent ethical life.

First published in 1981, After Virtue was met with a wave of controversy and acclaim, challenging the prevailing philosophical paradigms of the time. The book's provocative critique of modern moral philosophy and its bold advocacy for a return to Aristotelian ethics made it a seminal and transformative text in the field. Now, more than thirty years later, After Virtue continues to be a cornerstone in contemporary moral philosophy, essential reading for anyone grappling with the complexities of ethical theory and the quest for moral clarity in today's world.

The profound insights presented in After Virtue are not only of academic interest but also of practical significance, urging a reevaluation of how we live our ethical lives. MacIntyre's work implores readers to consider the importance of virtues and communal narratives, offering a path forward amidst the moral confusion of the modern age.