What are features of a practice, according to MacIntyre’s account?

http://johnpostill.com/2010/03/02/alasdair-macintyre-1985-on-what-counts-as-practice-and-what-doesnt/

To understand the features of a practice according to MacIntyre's account, we first need some background information about MacIntyre's philosophy. Alasdair MacIntyre is a prominent moral philosopher known for his work on virtue ethics. He argues that human actions should be understood within the context of practices. According to MacIntyre, practices are socially embedded activities that involve a set of standards, traditions, and goods that orient individuals towards achieving excellence.

Now, let's identify the main features of a practice based on MacIntyre's account:

1. Internal Goods: Each practice has internal goods that are specific to that particular activity. These goods are distinct and can only be achieved through participating in the practice. For example, the internal goods of chess include strategic thinking, problem-solving, and the pleasure of playing the game itself.

2. Shared Standards: Practices are characterized by shared standards that guide and evaluate the activities within the practice. These standards shape the participants' actions and help them discern good from bad performance. In chess, for instance, the standards include following the rules, playing fair, and demonstrating sportsmanship.

3. Traditions: Practices are rooted in specific traditions that are passed down from one generation to another. These traditions include a body of knowledge, techniques, and ways of understanding the practice. Chess, for example, has a long historical tradition with established strategies and famous games that have been analyzed and studied by players.

4. Community: Practices establish a sense of community among its participants. They provide a common ground for individuals to come together, interact, and engage in shared activities. Chess players often form clubs, join tournaments, or participate in online communities to play and discuss the game with fellow enthusiasts.

5. Development of Virtue: Practices are seen as conducive to the development of virtue. By participating in a practice, individuals cultivate virtues such as discipline, patience, humility, and perseverance. These virtues are essential for achieving excellence and embodying the virtues of the practice. In chess, players develop virtues such as strategic thinking, concentration, and resilience.

By understanding these features, MacIntyre contends that individuals can engage in practices that shape their moral character and contribute to human flourishing within a specific social context.