O papel das emoções e do hábito na formação moral

Abstract

The present research searches to understand and try to update some of the main concepts of the virtues theory by Aristotle, to articulate the role of emotions, feelings of pain and pleasure, in the formation of character through the practice of good habits, bringing into relation with the contemporary educational experience, particularly the example of children’s literature. Supported the Aristotelian theory and explanations and comparisons of commentators the work searches to expose and to analyze some questions that guide the research, such as: What is the role of emotions and the habit in moral action? What does it mean to educate to a virtuous and happy life? How is the relation between the rational and irrational part of the soul? Aristotle defends that character is molded in the habitual practice with time, experience, wise counsels, good examples and to accustom with the right, good and just, it makes us to think about education that we have and the education that we want for our children as future virtuous citizens. Whereas we are human beings endowed with reason, but also are animal beings endowed with desires and impulsivity, we need to find a middle term to act rightly. The moderation, the middle term, the endorsed and accepted just middle in “relation to us” led by the right use of straight reason, while pratical wisdow (phrónesis), which Estagirita maintains, can be a path to an education guided in ethical behavior and social and political involvement that aims a better, fairer and happier community.