Understanding Aristotle's Eudaimonia and the Doctrine of the Mean
School
Walden University**We aren't endorsed by this school
Course
NUNP 6640
Subject
Philosophy
Date
Dec 10, 2024
Pages
2
Uploaded by sheilaandino
A. Big IdeasA1. Aristotle discusses the concept of eudaimonia, or human flourishing, as a central big idea in the Nicomachean Ethics. Eudaimonia refers to the ultimate goal of human life, encompassing happiness, fulfillment, and living well. Aristotle argues that all human actions aim at achieving eudaimonia, and it is the highest good that every individual seeks. He believes that eudaimonia is attained through virtuous actions and the cultivation of moral virtues. For Aristotle, virtue is the mean between excess and deficiency, and it is developed through habituation and practical wisdom. This big idea is essential to Aristotle because it serves as the foundation for his ethical framework, guiding individuals toward a life of excellence and fulfillment.A2. Another significant idea in the Nicomachean Ethics is Aristotle's concept of the doctrine of the mean.Aristotle argues that moral virtue is found in the middle ground between two extremes of excess and deficiency. This mean is determined by practical wisdom, or phronesis, which enables individuals to discern the right course of action in specific situations. Aristotle believes that finding the mean is crucial for achieving virtuous behavior and ultimately attaining eudaimonia. This idea is important to Aristotle because it provides a practical guide for individuals to cultivate virtuous character and live a flourishing life.B. Primary TextKey Passage: "Virtue, then, is a state of character concerned with choice, lying in a mean, i.e., the mean relative to us, this being determined by a rational principle, and by that principle by which the man of practical wisdom would determine it" (Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book II, Chapter 6, 1106a).In the Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle delves into the intricate nature of virtue and its role in human life. Expanding upon the key passage provided, Aristotle elucidates that virtue is not merely an abstract concept but rather a state of character deeply intertwined with human choices. It resides in the mean, or the middle ground, between excess and deficiency, tailored to the individual's circumstances. This mean is not arbitrary but is determined by a rational principle, guided by practical wisdom. Aristotle emphasizes the importance of reason in discerning this mean. He posits that it is the rational faculty within us, particularly the practical wisdom possessed by the virtuous individual, that enables one to navigate moral complexities and make the right choices. Practical wisdom, or phronesis, is the ability to discern what is morally good and act accordingly in specific situations, considering various factors and nuances. Furthermore, Aristotle suggests that the virtuous mean is not fixed but rather flexible, adaptingto the particularities of each situation and individual. What constitutes courage, for instance, may vary depending on the circumstances and the individual's abilities and predispositions. Hence, virtue is not a static state but a dynamic process of habituation and cultivation, shaped by repeated actions and choices. Therefore, Aristotle's conception of virtue underscores the importance of reason, practical wisdom, and moderation in ethical decision-making. Virtue is not simply a theoretical ideal but a practical guide for living a flourishing and morally upright life.
C. Analysis of Primary TextC1. The main idea of the key passage is that virtue is a state of character that lies in finding the mean between excess and deficiency. Aristotle argues that virtue is determined by a rational principle, which is guided by practical wisdom. This means that virtuous behavior is not merely following rules but rather involves making choices that align with reason and practical wisdom. Aristotle emphasizes that the mean is relative to each individual and their circumstances, and it is determined by the rational principlethat a person of practical wisdom would use. This passage highlights the importance of practical wisdomin determining virtuous actions.C2. This key passage is crucial to understanding the whole of the Nicomachean Ethics because it encapsulates Aristotle's ethical framework centered around the doctrine of the mean. Understanding this passage helps readers grasp Aristotle's notion of virtue as a mean between extremes and the role ofpractical wisdom in ethical decision-making. It connects to the big ideas of eudaimonia and the doctrine of the mean identified earlier because it elucidates how virtue contributes to human flourishing and how individuals can attain it through the cultivation of practical wisdom and virtuous character.D. Pop Culture ComparisonD1. In the movie "The Pursuit of Happyness," there is a scene where the protagonist, Chris Gardner, faces numerous challenges and setbacks while pursuing his dream of becoming a successful stockbroker.Despite facing homelessness and financial difficulties, Chris perseveres with determination and resilience, eventually achieving his goals.D2. This example from "The Pursuit of Happyness" shares similarities with Aristotle's key passage regarding virtue and the mean. Like Aristotle's concept of virtue, Chris Gardner's determination and resilience represent finding the mean between extremes. He neither gives up in the face of adversity norbecomes overly reckless in pursuit of his goals. Instead, he demonstrates practical wisdom by making choices that align with his values and circumstances. Both Aristotle's doctrine of the mean and Chris Gardner's actions emphasize the importance of finding balance and making reasoned choices to achieve success and fulfillment.