Document Type
Article
Author ORCID Identifier
David S. Bright https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8760-2009
Jason M. Stansbury https://orcid.org/0009-0007-3514-9592
Bradley A. Winn https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7138-4107
Journal/Book Title/Conference
International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology
Volume
10
Issue
16
Publisher
Springer
Publication Date
1-7-2025
Journal Article Version
Version of Record
First Page
1
Last Page
30
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Abstract
This article aims to help Positive Social Science (PSS) researchers develop theories of virtues, whether of single, discrete virtues, or several virtues considered together. We argue that a weak virtue theory assumes a virtue consists of single constructs, whereas a deep virtue theory assumes a virtue is an integrated system of constructs. We briefly review indicators of weak theory in the PSS literature: definitional divergence, valence confusion, and conceptual incommensurability. Drawing from the field of Virtue Ethics, we suggest four essential attributes of a virtue that should guide the development of deep virtue theory. Any virtue is (1) holistic, in that it integrates all aspects of character, including cognition, affect, and behavior; (2) a human good, in that it is an intrinsic aspect of individual well-being and a flourishing community; (3) situationally expressed, such that prudence regulates its enactment across various situations; and (4) characteristic, in that it is a second-nature trait rather than a state. We suggest four principles that account for these attributes. Scholars might use these principles to build deep virtue theory and evaluate existing, empirically based PSS virtue theories. We propose that PSS scholars will create more robust theories, develop more defensible and meaningful measures, and generate more compelling accounts of specific virtues if they draw on these principles.
Recommended Citation
Bright, D.S., Stansbury, J.M. & Winn, B.A. We Need Deep Theories of Virtues: Four Principles for Advancing Research on Virtues in Positive Social Science. Int J Appl Posit Psychol 10, 16 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41042-024-00210-0