Briefly explain character theories of ethics.

Answers will vary. Virtue ethics, of which character theories of ethics are a type, offer an alternative to understanding behavior in terms of self-interest or rules. Character theories of ethics emphasize the character of the individual and the intent of the actor instead of the character of the act itself or its consequences. These virtue-ethics theories are based on an Aristotle's view of ethics, which focused on an individual's inner character and virtuousness rather than on outward behavior. Thus, a good person who acted out of virtuous and right intentions was one with integrity and ultimately good ethical standards. Robert Solomon is the best known advocate of this Aristotelian approach to business ethics. He advocates a business ethics theory centered on the individual within the corporation, emphasizing personal virtues as well as corporate roles. Solomon's six dimensions of virtue ethics are community, excellence, role identity, integrity, judgment, and holism. Please see the section "Ethics, Character, and Personal Integrity" for more information.