Hip to Be Square: Moral Saints Revisited

I defend the continuing importance, and attraction of, moral saints. The objective of this paper is twofold; firstly, to critique Wolf’s definition sainthood, secondly, argue against her view that one should not desire be a saint, nor emulate them. In section 1, saints are highly complex agents, does capture complexity. My second argument account there two kinds saints, loving rational, leads tension. Either: (1) distinction between rational justifiable; but then arguments benefits sainthood ought directed independently each kind saint which, Wolf do; or (2) justifiable, in which case division explanatorily impotent. 2, will present for why want even know one. counter over-emphasises non-moral values, point these values have monopoly on what constitutes well-rounded life. must provide more definitive scope as ambiguous. Finally, can serve exemplars visionaries. By admiring emulating them, we adapt our own behavior, by example, discover new better ways pursuing goods.