In the context of ethics, what question does virtue ethics primarily ask?

Virtue ethics primarily focuses on the character and virtues of the moral agent rather than strictly on rules or specific actions. The central question it poses, "Who should I be?", emphasizes the importance of personal development, ethical character, and the cultivation of virtues such as honesty, courage, compassion, and wisdom. This approach suggests that by embodying certain virtues, individuals will naturally make ethical decisions and act in ways that are morally good.

In contrast, other ethical frameworks tend to concentrate on specific actions or guidelines. The question "What should I do?" relates more to deontological ethics, which focuses on rules and duties, while "How should I feel?" may align with aspects of moral psychology or emotivism, which are not the main focus of virtue ethics. Additionally, "What are the rules?" directly pertains to a rule-based or legalistic approach to ethics, such as utilitarianism or deontology, which prioritize following established guidelines or maximizing utility above character development. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the core tenet of virtue ethics, which is a focus on the individual's moral character and aspirations for who they should become.