Aristotle's Ethics: The Good Life

• In Ancient Greece, before the term "science" existed, understanding the world and reality was linked to understanding oneself and living a good life.

The Good Life

• This topic explores Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics and the concept of the Good Life, focusing on Eudaimonia (the ultimate good and uniquely human) and Arête (human happiness).
• The goal is to define the idea of the good life, discuss Aristotle's concepts of Eudaimonia and arête, and examine contemporary issues, providing ethical solutions for leading a good life.
• Everyone is in pursuit of a good life, seeking things that bring happiness and contentment, though the definition of a good life differs among individuals.
• Aristotle states that all human activities aim at some good, with the good being the target of all endeavors.
• Instrumental good is considered a means of achieving something good, while intrinsic good is good in itself.
• The good life is characterized by happiness resulting from living and doing well, a concept known as eudaimonia which translates to "eu" (good) and "monia" (spirit).
• Eudaimonia signifies happiness, welfare, human flourishing, and prosperity.
• According to Aristotle, eudaimonia defines the good life, and pleasure, wealth, fame, and honor are not ultimate goods.
• Wealth, power, beauty, and fame do not guarantee happiness or good relationships; instead, simplicity, humility, and genuine love lead to a meaningful life.

Eudaimonia: Uniquely Human

• Eudaimonia is exclusive to humans because it serves as a uniquely human function.
• Aristotle's notion encompasses a nested hierarchy of the soul's functions and activities.
• Humans possess a rational soul, capable of theoretical and practical functions.
• Only humans can live a life guided by reason, making happiness achievable through a rationally directed life.

Arête

• Arête means "excellence of any kind" or "moral virtue."
• Eudaimonia is achievable only through living a life of virtue.
• Intellectual virtue, or virtue of thought, comes through education, time, and experience; key intellectual virtues include wisdom and understanding.
• Moral virtue, or virtue of character, is achieved through habitual practice; key moral values include generosity, temperance, and courage.

Intellectual Virtue + Virtue of Character = Eudaimonia

• Achieving Eudaimonia means intellectual and moral virtue should align with reason.
• These virtues protect humans from indifference, pleasure, or satisfaction.
• Excess and deficiency in how one lives and acts ruins virtue.

Summary

• The good life, or eudaimonia, involves being happy, healthy, and prosperous in thought, life, and actions.
• The good life means happiness (eudaimonia) achieved by living a virtuous life (Arête)
• The progress of Science and Technology, guided by virtue and ethical standards, promotes moving towards a good life.