The Western ethical heritage descends from where?

The Western ethical heritage is primarily rooted in Ancient Greece, where foundational philosophical concepts of ethics were developed. Thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laid the groundwork for discussions surrounding morality, virtue, and the good life. Their inquiries into human behavior, justice, and societal obligations established frameworks that continue to influence Western thought today.

The contributions of Ancient Greece introduced ideas about rationality and the importance of reason in moral deliberation, which would later shape ethical theories such as virtue ethics and consequentialism. Additionally, the Socratic method emphasized dialogue and questioning, which became integral to philosophical inquiry in ethics.

The impact of Ancient Greece is evident in various disciplines, including philosophy, political theory, and law, making it a cornerstone of Western civilization's exploration of ethics. This approach has been integrated and expanded upon throughout history, influencing later periods such as the Renaissance and the Enlightenment, but its origins can be distinctly traced back to the rich philosophical landscape of Ancient Greece.