Nicomachean Ethics

Aristotelis De Moribus ad Nicomachum

Neoptolemos und Priamossohn

Hector Cassandra Pomarici Santomasi

Socrates Louvre

Young Spartans National Gallery NG3860

Nicomachean Ethics is a philosophical work by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, focusing on the concept of virtue ethics and the path to the good life. It is named after Aristotle's son, Nicomachus, to whom the work was dedicated. Composed of ten books, the Nicomachean Ethics outlines Aristotle's views on how to achieve eudaimonia, often translated as happiness or flourishing, which he considers the highest good for humans.

Overview

The Nicomachean Ethics is divided into ten books, each addressing different aspects of ethical philosophy. Aristotle begins with a discussion of the good, which he defines as that at which all things aim. He identifies eudaimonia as the highest good for humans, achievable through the practice of virtue. Aristotle distinguishes between intellectual virtues, which include wisdom and understanding, and moral virtues, such as courage and temperance, arguing that a balance of these virtues leads to the best life.

Key Concepts

Virtue Ethics

Aristotle's approach to ethics focuses on the character of the individual and the virtues that constitute good character. He argues that virtues are habits or dispositions to act in certain ways, developed through practice and aiming at a mean between excess and deficiency. For example, courage is a virtue that lies between cowardice and recklessness.

The Doctrine of the Mean

One of the central concepts in the Nicomachean Ethics is the Doctrine of the Mean, which suggests that virtue is a mean between two vices, one of excess and one of deficiency. Aristotle emphasizes that this mean is not the same for every person or situation, but depends on the individual and the circumstances.

Eudaimonia

Eudaimonia, often translated as happiness or flourishing, is the ultimate goal of human life according to Aristotle. He argues that eudaimonia is achieved through a life of virtuous activity in accordance with reason. Unlike momentary pleasures, eudaimonia is a stable and lasting state that encompasses a whole life.

Influence and Legacy

The Nicomachean Ethics has had a profound impact on Western ethical and moral philosophy. Its emphasis on virtue and character, as well as its practical approach to ethics, has influenced philosophers throughout history, from Aquinas in the Middle Ages to contemporary virtue ethicists. The work remains a central text in the study of ancient philosophy and ethics.

See Also

• Virtue ethics
• Aristotle
• Eudaimonia
• Doctrine of the Mean