Which of the skills that Phil Connors (Bill Murray) learns in the course of his time in the Groundhog Day loop would be considered a “practice” according to MacIntyre’s account? Is it Playing piano?
Yes
To determine if playing the piano, one of the skills that Phil Connors (Bill Murray) learns in the movie Groundhog Day, qualifies as a "practice" according to MacIntyre's account, we need to understand what MacIntyre means by the term "practice."
According to philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre, a practice is a form of social activity that involves a coherent set of standards and rules, internal goods that participants seek to achieve, and a shared understanding of the purpose and values of the practice.
In the case of playing the piano, it can indeed be considered a practice. Here's why:
1. Coherent set of standards and rules: Playing the piano has established techniques, methods, scales, chords, and musical notation. These guidelines set the standards for how one should play the instrument.
2. Internal goods: Playing the piano offers internal goods in the form of personal growth, mastery of the instrument, self-expression, and the pleasure of creating music. These are goods that are pursued within the practice itself and are valuable to the participant.
3. Shared understanding of purpose and values: Musicians and piano players generally share a common understanding of why they play the piano. This could be for reasons such as personal enjoyment, artistic expression, communication, or performance. Additionally, they often recognize the value of dedication, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence within the practice.
Considering these aspects, playing the piano in the movie Groundhog Day would be considered a "practice" according to MacIntyre's account. Phil Connors' focus on learning to play the piano shows his engagement with the standards, values, and personal growth associated with the practice.