Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle

at
Categories
Tags

 

 

 

 

In the Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle concludes that eudemonia, or human flourishing (translated as “happiness” in our text) is the highest good. Describe Aristotle’s conception of eudemonia (“happiness”). Next, describe Aristotle’s conceptions of the human function, the rational part of the soul, habituation, character, and virtue. Explain the role each of these conceptions plays in the achievement of eudemonia according to Aristotle. Support your descriptions and explanations by citing the text.

 

Sample Solution

Eudaimonia

Aristotle defines eudemonia as “an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue” (Nicomachean Ethics, 1.7.1098a15). He argues that eudemonia is the highest good because it is the ultimate goal of human life. Everything else that we strive for, such as wealth, pleasure, and honor, is only valuable insofar as it contributes to eudemonia.

Human Function

Aristotle believes that each thing has a function, or purpose. The function of a thing is what it is best suited for. For example, the function of a knife is to cut, and the function of an eye is to see.

Aristotle believes that the human function is to reason. This is because humans are the only animals that are able to reason. Humans use reason to think critically, solve problems, and make moral decisions.

Rational Part of the Soul

Aristotle divides the soul into three parts: the nutritive soul, the sensitive soul, and the rational soul. The nutritive soul is responsible for basic bodily functions such as eating and growing. The sensitive soul is responsible for sensations such as sight, hearing, and touch. The rational soul is responsible for reasoning and thought.

Habituation

Habituation is the process by which we acquire virtues and vices. Aristotle believes that virtues are developed through repeated practice. For example, if we want to be courageous, we must practice acting courageously.

Character

Character is the sum total of our virtues and vices. It is what makes us who we are. Aristotle believes that character is essential to eudemonia. We cannot be truly happy if we are not virtuous.

Virtue

Virtue is excellence of character. It is what allows us to live a good and flourishing life. Aristotle identifies two types of virtues: moral virtues and intellectual virtues.

Moral virtues are character traits that enable us to act rightly in our relationships with others. Examples of moral virtues include courage, temperance, and justice.

Intellectual virtues are character traits that enable us to reason and think well. Examples of intellectual virtues include wisdom, understanding, and practical wisdom.

The Role of Human Function, Rational Part of the Soul, Habituation, Character, and Virtue in the Achievement of Eudaimonia

According to Aristotle, the human function, rational part of the soul, habituation, character, and virtue all play a role in the achievement of eudemonia.

  • Human function: Aristotle believes that eudemonia can only be achieved by living a life that is in accordance with our human function. This means that we must use our reason to pursue virtuous activities.
  • Rational part of the soul: The rational part of the soul is what makes us human. It is also the part of the soul that is responsible for virtue. Therefore, the rational part of the soul is essential for the achievement of eudemonia.
  • Habituation: Virtues are developed through habituation. This means that we must practice acting virtuously in order to become virtuous. Habituation is essential for the achievement of eudemonia because it allows us to develop the character traits that we need to live a good and flourishing life.
  • Character: Character is the sum total of our virtues and vices. It is what makes us who we are. Aristotle believes that character is essential for eudemonia because we cannot be truly happy if we are not virtuous.
  • Virtue: Virtues are excellences of character. They enable us to live a good and flourishing life. Aristotle believes that virtue is essential for eudemonia because it is only by living a virtuous life that we can achieve our full potential as human beings.

Conclusion

Aristotle’s conception of eudemonia is complex and nuanced. It is a holistic view of human flourishing that takes into account all aspects of human life, including the rational part of the soul, habituation, character, and virtue. Aristotle’s insights into eudemonia are still relevant today, and they can help us to live better and more fulfilling lives.

This question has been answered.

Get Answer