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An Analysis Of Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics

1437 Words6 Pages

In Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle synthesizes an enthralling dissertation that, “the human good proves to be activity of soul in accord with excellence” (1098a 16-17) which requires, “a rational principle” (1098a 7-8). Even though some critics may contend that the human good lies within something other than excellently acting in accordance with reason, the case set forth in Nicomachean Ethics attempts to dismiss such detractors as inordinately obstinate in their parochial ideology. To support his conclusion, Aristotle adroitly employs several cogent premises. This paper will explain how Aristotle reaches his conclusion and examine potential flaws in his argument First, I will state each proposition in Aristotle’s argument. After I present an individual …show more content…

Once I explain Aristotle’s argument in full, I will provide my opinion on Aristotle’s argument and point out potential flaws. Finally, I will provide a conclusion that sums up the arguments and opinions discussed in this paper. In the beginning of the article, Aristotle expounds his first premise by explicating, “every action and decision, seems to seek some good” (1094a 2-3). This means that people’s disciplines and actions seek some purpose that can be viewed as good. For instance, the good that is sought after by those who practice medicine would be health. It is important to note, some actions may not be good by everyone’s standards, but they are at the very least subjectively good to the agents performing the actions. Next, Aristotle reaches the second part of his argument by explaining that there is a hierarchy of good; meaning that some actions

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