Who is the key philosopher behind virtue ethics?

The key philosopher behind virtue ethics is Aristotle. His ethical framework emphasizes the importance of character and the cultivation of virtuous habits in achieving a good and fulfilling life. Aristotle believed that virtues lie at the mean between extremes, and the development of good character traits is essential for ethical living. He argued that moral virtues are cultivated through practice and that an individual's actions should aim toward achieving eudaimonia, often translated as "flourishing" or "the good life." This approach focuses on the qualities and dispositions of individuals rather than strictly following rules or evaluating outcomes, which distinguishes virtue ethics from other moral theories like deontology or utilitarianism. Aristotle's contributions to virtue ethics have had a lasting impact and continue to be influential in contemporary moral philosophy.