Introduction
Aristotle is one of the most influential philosophers in the Western tradition, and his book, “Nicomachean Ethics,” remains one of the foundational texts in the study of ethics. In this book, Aristotle explores the nature of happiness (eudaimonia) and provides a comprehensive account of the virtuous life. The three main topics discussed in this paper are Aristotle’s definitions of happiness, his account of the four lifestyles, and his distinction between theoretical and practical reason or practical wisdom. I believe that Aristotle’s ideas are still relevant today and offer valuable insights into the nature of happiness and the good life. Through closely examining Aristotle’s views, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the issues and provide a clearer picture of Aristotle’s overall philosophy.
Definition of Happiness
According to Aristotle, eudaimonia is the ultimate end or goal of human action and is the key to understanding the good life (pp. 66). Aristotle argues that happiness is not a fleeting emotion or momentary pleasure but rather a state of complete well-being resulting from a life lived according to reason and virtue. He defines eudaimonia as an activity of the soul by virtue, where virtue is understood as a mean between two extremes, such as courage, cowardice, and recklessness. Thus, Aristotle’s definition of happiness is closely tied to the idea of living a virtuous life, as the virtuous person can achieve well-being and satisfaction from living by reason and virtue.
Aristotle also argues that happiness is an end and that all other goods, such as wealth, honor, and pleasure, are only desirable because they contribute to our overall well-being (Ross, 1956, pp. 67). For Aristotle, happiness is not merely the absence of pain or the attainment of pleasure but rather a state of flourishing and self-realization. He also claims that happiness is a final cause or end, which means that it cannot be achieved through other means but is rather the ultimate goal or purpose of human action.
The Four Lifestyles
Aristotle identifies four lifestyles or ways of living, each with unique goals and priorities. The first lifestyle is the life of pleasure, which is centered around the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. Aristotle argues that this lifestyle is not truly fulfilling or worthwhile, as pleasure is not an end but a byproduct of a virtuous life. In other words, a life of pleasure only provides temporary happiness and does not offer a sense of true well-being or fulfillment.
The second lifestyle is the life of politics, which is focused on attaining power and prestige. Aristotle argues that this lifestyle is better than the life of pleasure, as it involves a greater degree of practical wisdom and virtue. However, he also claims that politics is not the best life, as it is still focused on external goods and only allows for the full development of the individual’s potential.
The third lifestyle is the life of contemplation, which Aristotle considers most fulfilling and worthwhile. This lifestyle focuses on the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, allowing for the full development of the individual’s intellectual and moral virtues (Ross, 1956, pp. 70). A life of contemplation is grounded in a deep understanding of the world and provides a sense of inner peace and satisfaction. Aristotle argues that this lifestyle is the best way to achieve true happiness and well-being, as it allows individuals to tap into their full potential and pursue the ultimate goals of human life.
Finally, the fourth lifestyle is the life of practical wisdom, which involves applying wisdom to everyday life. This lifestyle is focused on living a virtuous life and doing what is right and just, and it is the one that Aristotle ultimately endorses as the best way of living. A life of practical wisdom requires a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, and it provides individuals with a sense of purpose and meaning.
Theoretical and Practical Wisdom
Theoretical reason is concerned with understanding universal truths and the principles that govern the world, such as mathematics and metaphysics. This type of reason is concerned with knowledge for its own sake, and it provides individuals with a deeper understanding of the world and the things in it. Practical reason, on the other hand, is concerned with applying knowledge to practical matters and realizing goals and actions. This type of reason is concerned with the pursuit of action, which enables individuals to act in the world in a wise and virtuous manner (Ross, 1956, pp. 72).
Aristotle argues that practical wisdom combines both theoretical reason and practical reason, as it involves the application of theoretical knowledge to practical matters in a wise and virtuous manner. Practical wisdom requires understanding both general principles and specific circumstances, and it involves the ability to make judgments about what is best to do in a particular situation.
Conclusion
Aristotle defines happiness as eudaimonia, a state of complete well-being achieved through a life of reason and virtue. He identifies four different lifestyles, of which the life of practical wisdom, which involves the practical application of wisdom to everyday life, is considered the best way of living. Aristotle also distinguishes between theoretical and practical reason, arguing that practical wisdom is the combination of both, which enables individuals to act in the world in a wise and virtuous manner.
Reference
Ross, D. (1956). Aristotle: the Nicomachean ethics. Philosophy, 31(116).
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