Living Accountably: Accountability as a Virtue

Accountability is a virtue that holds people who have done something wrong accountable for their actions and is synonymous with punishing someone. Living Accountably argues that accountability should also be understood as a significant, forward-looking virtue, possessed by those who willingly embrace being accountable to those who have proper standing, when that standing is exercised appropriately. It examines the relation of accountability to other virtues, such as honesty and humility, and opposing vices, such as self-deception, arrogance, and servility. It also explores the history of this virtue in other cultures and historical eras, providing evidence that it is widely recognized, even if it is somewhat eclipsed in modern western societies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

In the realm of contemporary culture, accountability is commonly perceived as the act of holding individuals responsible for their actions, often synonymous with punishment. However, the book "Living Accountably" presents a different perspective, advocating that accountability should be regarded as a significant and forward-looking virtue, possessed by those who willingly embrace their responsibility towards those with proper standing, when such standing is exercised appropriately. Those who embody this virtue are individuals who strive to live with integrity and honesty.

The book offers a detailed exploration of the virtue, providing a comprehensive account of how it is exercised. It delves into the motivational profile of those who possess the virtue, shedding light on their driving forces and values. Furthermore, it examines the relationship between accountability and other virtues such as honesty, humility, and opposing vices like self-deception, arrogance, and servility. While accountability is compatible with individual autonomy, recognizing its importance is essential to appreciating the social nature of human beings.

C. Stephen Evans also delves into the historical context of accountability, exploring its presence in various cultures and historical eras. He provides evidence of the widespread recognition of accountability, although it may be somewhat overshadowed in modern Western societies. Additionally, the book explores the connection between accountability and religious life for many individuals, as it is often seen as a global responsibility for how one lives their life.

Living Accountably raises the question of whether global accountability can be understood purely in secular terms, as accountability to other humans, or if it requires a deeper understanding of accountability to a transcendent reality, such as God or some other higher power. The book offers insights into this complex issue, encouraging readers to consider the broader philosophical and ethical dimensions of accountability in their personal and professional lives.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 240 x 165 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192898104