Aristotle's Final End Essay
1. Explain Aristotle’s definition of happiness as a final end, and why the “final end” is equivalent to the ultimate good. Aristotle’s most basic definition of happiness is that it is the final end. This final end is viewed as a goal, something that is worth pursuing. When something is defined as good, it is good because it is worth being realized, which can thus be associated with a goal. At this point, it can be understood that the terms end and good are exchangeable. Since Aristotle is a classical philosopher, he believes that the true essence of human beings is to reform their existence to be in accordance to the Divine, which is viewed as the ultimate good. To control this animal nature and instincts would lead to a life living in accordance
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Explain Aristotle’s definition of moral virtue as the habit of choosing the right mean. According to Aristotle, happiness is an activity, whereas moral virtue is defined as a habit to perform a function well. Because happiness is an action, happiness can then be viewed as exercising moral virtue. Moral virtue is defined by choosing the right mean between two extremes.
It is thus very important to know the difference between when choosing between the two extremes, these two extremes being excess or defect. For example, the emotion pride can be viewed as the right mean between two extremes. The excess of pride would to be conceited or arrogant, whereas the deficiency of pride would to be shy or meek. To find this middle ground allows for one to get in the habit of choosing the right mean, to train oneself. These moral virtues then can become almost a second nature.
7. Give and explain the second way to arrive at the definition of happiness as contemplation.
Because Aristotle is a classical philosopher, he believes that human beings are in their true essence when in imitation of the Divine. When an individual becomes closer to the Divine life, they are fulfilling their true essence. In turn, this would then allow an individual to achieve a level of
Explain Aristotle’s definition of moral virtue as the habit of choosing the right mean. According to Aristotle, happiness is an activity, whereas moral virtue is defined as a habit to perform a function well. Because happiness is an action, happiness can then be viewed as exercising moral virtue. Moral virtue is defined by choosing the right mean between two extremes.
It is thus very important to know the difference between when choosing between the two extremes, these two extremes being excess or defect. For example, the emotion pride can be viewed as the right mean between two extremes. The excess of pride would to be conceited or arrogant, whereas the deficiency of pride would to be shy or meek. To find this middle ground allows for one to get in the habit of choosing the right mean, to train oneself. These moral virtues then can become almost a second nature.
7. Give and explain the second way to arrive at the definition of happiness as contemplation.
Because Aristotle is a classical philosopher, he believes that human beings are in their true essence when in imitation of the Divine. When an individual becomes closer to the Divine life, they are fulfilling their true essence. In turn, this would then allow an individual to achieve a level of