Francis Hutcheson on the character of virtue
Abstract
This chapter argues that a number of apparent problems in Hutcheson’s arguments can be made sense of, if not fully laid to rest, if we consider the roles of character and beauty in his ethics. In particular, Hutcheson develops a value-pluralist conception of virtuous and beautiful character, which explains the apparently conflicting utilitarian and deontic tendencies in his theory. This helps Hutcheson to respond, partially, to Hume’s and Smith’s criticisms.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Philosophical Ethics and Theory
Hume's philosophy and hair distribution
Seventeenth-Century Political and Philosophical Thought
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 76–91
- Publication date
- 6 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter