Friday Academic Review Tome: Northeast Asian Martial Arts and Ethics

Synopsis
Alexander Svitych's article "Northeast Asian Modern Martial Arts: An Embodied Synthesis of Virtue Ethics and Deontology" explores the intersection of moral philosophy and martial arts, focusing on Northeast Asian traditions such as Taekwon-do and Aikido. The article contends that these martial arts represent a synthesis of virtue ethics and Deontology grounded in embodied practices rather than purely rational contemplation. For instance, in Taekwon-do, the virtue of perseverance is cultivated through rigorous training, while the deontological principle of non-violence is upheld through the rule of 'no first strike '.


Virtue ethics emphasises the role of character and virtue in moral decision-making. Rather than focusing solely on rules or consequences, virtue ethics considers the individual's moral character and the virtues they cultivate, such as courage, temperance, and wisdom. The aim is to develop a good character and lead a flourishing life.


On the other hand, Deontology is an ethical theory that focuses on adherence to rules or duties. It asserts that specific actions are morally obligatory, irrespective of their consequences. This approach is often associated with the philosopher Immanuel Kant, who argued that moral principles should be followed consistently as universal laws. Deontology emphasises the importance of doing what is right because it is intrinsically right rather than because of any external outcomes.


Svitych challenges the assumption that moral philosophy is exclusively a Western domain rooted in intellectual exercises. Instead, he posits that Northeast Asian martial arts embody a corporeal moral philosophy, a term he uses to describe a philosophy that is not just about ideas or principles, but is lived and experienced through the body. In this philosophy, ethical principles are not just understood intellectually, but are internalised through physical practice. This perspective aligns with a 'moral philosophy of the body,' emphasising the unity of mind and body in ethical conduct.


The article is structured first to provide definitions and contextual background, contrasting Western philosophical traditions with Asian martial arts. It then delves into the argument that martial arts synthesise virtue ethics and Deontology. Svitych draws on qualitative reviews of literature and participant observations in Taekwon-do and Aikido to support his claims.


Key Points and Quotes

• Martial Arts as Ethical Systems:
  • Martial arts are defined as methods of self-development and self-knowing through combat preparation and engagement. They are viewed as educational activities that combine physical training with spiritual and moral growth.
  • Svitych states, "Asian martial arts can be conceived of as a synthesised moral tradition of virtue ethics and deontology, achieved through embodied practices rather than rational contemplation" (Svitych, 2021). This assertion underscores the idea that martial arts provide a holistic approach to personal development, integrating physical prowess with ethical understanding.
• Embodied Knowledge:
  • 'Embodied knowledge' is central to the argument, where ethical virtues are cultivated through rigorous physical training. This challenges the Western emphasis on intellectualism in moral philosophy. Embodied knowledge suggests that proper understanding and moral behaviour come from lived, physical experiences rather than abstract reasoning. This concept of 'embodied knowledge' in martial arts not only challenges the traditional Western view of moral philosophy but also offers a unique perspective on how ethics can be understood and practiced.Aristotle's idea that "Men ought not to labour at the same time with their minds and with their bodies" is contrasted with the integrated approach of martial arts (Aristotle, as cited in Svitych, 2021). The body and mind are trained simultaneously in martial arts, fostering a deep connection between physical actions and ethical principles.
• Virtue Ethics in Martial Arts:
  • Martial arts promote the formation of good character through practices that cultivate virtues such as perseverance, self-control, and integrity. These virtues are not merely theoretical but are embodied through disciplined training and continuous self-improvement.
• The five tenets of Taekwon-do—courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit—exemplify how ethical principles are instilled through martial practice. These tenets are not only recited but are deeply ingrained in practitioners through repetitive training and the respectful culture of the dojo. The dojo, which is the training hall or space where martial arts are practiced, is a crucial part of the martial arts tradition, as it provides a physical and social environment that supports the cultivation of these ethical principles.Deontology and Non-Violence:
  • A fundamental precept in martial arts is non-violence, which aligns with deontological ethics. In the context of martial arts, non-violence does not mean the absence of combat or conflict, but rather the control of aggression and the responsible use of skills. This principle of non-violence is a core ethical guideline governing how martial artists interact with others inside and outside the dojo.The principle of non-violence is embodied in rules such as "no first strike" and the conduct during sparring sessions, where practitioners must exercise restraint. This ethical stance promotes peace and respect, transforming martial arts from mere combat techniques to a disciplined way of life.
• Synthesis of Ethical Traditions:
  • Svitych's compelling argument is that martial arts are not just physical disciplines, but also a coherent ethical system that is both practical and philosophical. This synthesis is not a mere theoretical construct, but a system that martial artists live and breathe, integrating moral virtues with strict ethical rules in their daily practice.The martial arts tradition is a dynamic interplay between cultivating virtues and adhering to moral precepts, particularly non-violence. This interplay ensures that martial artists develop a balanced character, capable of ethical decision-making and virtuous conduct in challenging situations.

Conclusion
Svitych's conclusion is a call to action, inviting us to explore how Northeast Asian martial arts can enrich our understanding of the integration of body and mind in moral philosophy. By engaging in martial arts, practitioners not only develop physical skills but also embody ethical virtues, thereby becoming a living testament to a moral tradition that synthesizes Western and Eastern philosophical insights. This article sparks the imagination, suggesting that the physical discipline of martial arts can serve as a powerful model for integrating ethical theory and practice in our own lives.


Bibliography
Svitych, A. (2021). Northeast Asian Modern Martial Arts: An Embodied Synthesis of Virtue Ethics and Deontology. The International Journal of the History of Sport. DOI: [10.1080/09523367.2021.1887143](https://doi.org/10.1080/09523367.2021.1887143).

For full terms and conditions of access and use, visit [Taylor & Francis Online](https://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?journalCode=fhsp20).

---