Alasdair MacIntyre’s After Virtue is lauded for its profound critique of modern moral philosophy and its compelling argument for a return to Aristotelian ethics. Reviewers appreciate its intellectual rigor and insightful analysis of virtue ethics. However, some criticize its dense prose and theoretical complexity, which may challenge less experienced readers. Overall, it's a significant contribution to ethical philosophy.

Readers who are fascinated by moral philosophy, the critique of modernity, and the revival of Aristotelian ethics will appreciate After Virtue by Alasdair MacIntyre. Comparable books include Charles Taylor's Sources of the Self and Alasdair MacIntyre's own Whose Justice? Which Rationality?.

After Virtue by Alasdair MacIntyre explores the breakdown of modern moral discourse, arguing that current moral frameworks are impoverished remnants of older traditions, particularly the Aristotelian concept of teleology. MacIntyre analyzes the historical shift away from these traditions, critiques Enlightenment and 19th-century philosophies, especially those of Nietzsche and Marx, and ultimately suggests a return to Aristotelian ethics as a remedy to moral anarchy, urging a re-evaluation of our moral roots to prevent societal decay.

Informative / Contemplative / Challenging / Inspirational / Mysterious

- After Virtue was first published in 1981 and is considered one of the seminal works in contemporary moral and political philosophy, critically examining the state of modern ethical theory. 
- The book is notable for reintroducing the concept of virtue ethics, drawing heavily on the philosophies of Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas in its critique of modern moral thought.
- Alasdair MacIntyre has been credited with sparking renewed interest in virtue ethics, a field that had seen diminishing focus in philosophy prior to the release of After Virtue.

**Alasdair MacIntyre**  
A moral and political philosopher who critiques modern moral issues through the lens of Aristotelian thought, emphasizing the importance of community and virtue ethics.

**Aristotle**  
An ancient Greek philosopher whose ethical ideas, particularly his concept of virtue as a mean between extremes, are central to MacIntyre's argument for resolving contemporary moral problems.

**Friedrich Nietzsche**  
A 19th-century philosopher who explored the implications of the Enlightenment on morality, leading to a crisis of values that MacIntyre contrasts with traditional Aristotelian ethics.

Alasdair MacIntyre

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After Virtue Summary

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Chapters 1-3

After Virtue Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

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Chapters 7-9

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Chapters 10-13

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Chapters 14-18

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After Virtue: A Study in Moral Theory

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