Alvero, Sofia Veronica M.
3BAC
Alasdaire MacIntyre’s Theory of Practice
Summary:
The study of the theory of practice is influenced by the classical theorists (Aristotle),
modern theorists (Marx), and contemporary theorists (MacIntyre). From their theories, we will
be able to point out the different traditions of practice, independence of practice from theory and
how understanding of practice can be considered in itself a theory, especially in morality.
The introduction was about the meaning of praxis, which entails a sort of activity,
premised on human activity. However, anything people do cannot be fully explored so it will
have to be viewed in the context of morality. Practice is said to refer to all human activity
whatever they are or almost any kind of activity, which a free man is likely to perform.
Aristotle’s theory on practice revolved around his compartmentalized sorts of knowledge
relative to different human activities – all human activities are guided by a corresponding
knowledge that is specific to activity. In Marx’ opinion, theory is supposed to serve praxis; or at
least the understanding that theory is a form of praxis. Lastly, is Macintyre’s virtue-based
morality, which is involved in his reconstruction, reformulation and revival of the morality of
virtues. It involved also, practice figures, narrative orders and notions of what constitute a moral
tradition.
Critique:
I’m gonna have to agree with Alasdaire MacIntyre who said: “Practice lays down the
background from which a person ought to learn how to act accordingly so that he could lead a
