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Analysis: "12 Years a Slave" portrays the genuine moral dilemma faced by Solomon
Northup, a free black man kidnapped and enslaved. The film explores the moral choices
forced upon him and others in the brutal context of slavery. It raises questions about
complicity, resistance, and the profound ethical challenges individuals face in such
oppressive circumstances.
Aristotelian Virtue Ethics: Applying Aristotle's virtue ethics, the film emphasizes virtues
like courage, justice, and resilience. Solomon's journey showcases virtues in the face of
adversity, as he maintains his moral integrity despite the dehumanizing conditions,
highlighting the enduring power of virtue.
Analysis: "The Truman Show" presents a false moral dilemma as the protagonist,
Truman Burbank, navigates a constructed reality. Truman faces decisions that seem
genuine but are orchestrated by the show's producers. The film explores the ethical
implications of manipulating someone's life for entertainment, questioning the
authenticity of moral choices.
Analysis: "A Beautiful Mind" portrays the self-imposed dilemma faced by John Nash, a
brilliant mathematician dealing with schizophrenia. Nash's internal struggles and the
challenges he faces within his own mind create a poignant self-imposed dilemma. The
film explores the impact of mental health on decision-making and personal
relationships.
Aristotelian Virtue Ethics: Applying Aristotle's virtue ethics, the film examines the
virtues of courage, friendship, and self-reflection. Nash's journey involves overcoming
personal challenges, seeking support from friends, and developing intellectual virtues to
navigate his self-imposed dilemma.
4. World-imposed Dilemma:
Aristotelian Virtue Ethics: Aristotle's virtue ethics is evident in the characters' virtues of
courage, justice, and solidarity. The film emphasizes the importance of virtuous actions
in navigating a world-imposed dilemma, showcasing the enduring relevance of
Aristotle's ethical principles.
5. Multi-Person Dilemma:
Aristotelian Virtue Ethics: Applying Aristotle's virtue ethics, the film examines virtues
such as justice, prudence, and cooperation. The characters' actions and decisions reflect
their virtues and vices in the face of a multi-person dilemma, illustrating the importance
of virtuous behavior even in dire situations.