'Virtue Theory and the Ethics of Finance' by Kate Padgett-Walsh
23 April 2025, 18:00 - Rome time
In conversation is organized by Phinance, the Philosophy & Finance Network
Kate Padgett-Walsh (Iowa State University), Virtue Theory and the Ethics of Finance
Interviewer: Fabian Corver (Groningen University)
Chair: Emiliano Ippoliti (Roma Sapienza)
Organization: Emiliano Ippoliti (Roma Sapienza); Lisa Warenski (CUNY Graduate Center and University of Connecticut); Joakim Sandberg (University of Gothenburg)
Abstract
In this talk, Kate draws upon the history of philosophy to argue for an integration of two seemingly incompatible virtue theoretic approaches to the ethics of finance today. The first directs us to focus on the character of individuals engaged in finance, while the second directs us to assess the activities of finance in their own right. These two different insights can be fruitfully synthesized, Kate argues, by using Capability Theory to assess forms of financial activity, including controversial activities such as short selling, with nuance and attention to detail.
A debate follows the interview.
‘In Conversation: Exploring the Philosophy of Money and Finance’is a series of meetings that explore the relationship between philosophy, money, and finance. Each interview is followed by a live debate, encouraging active audience participation. The sessions (interview plus debate) is 30 minutes long.