Aristotelian Ethics Flashcards
What is Aristotle’s definition of human good according to Nicomachean Ethics?
Aristotle defines human good as the “activity of the soul in accordance with virtue” with happiness being the highest achievable good through action
What is the role of reason in Aristotle’s Ethics?
Reason plays a dual function: self-control over emotions (moral virtue) and the pursuit of knowledge and eternal truth (intellectual virtue)
Explain Aristotle’s concept of the golden mean
The golden mean is the idea that virtue lies between two extremes of deficiency and excess. In all things, individuals should strive for moderation
How does Aristotle differentiate between moral and intellectual virtues?
Moral virtues involve self-control and moderation over emotions, while intellectual virtues involve the pursuit of knowledge and truth for its own sake
What is the significance of moderation in Aristotle’s ethics?
Moderation is essential for achieving happiness. Virtue is found in the mean between extremes, avoiding both excessive repression and excessive indulgence
How does Aristotle view the relationship between knowledge and virtue?
Aristotle believes that knowledge alone is not sufficient for virtue; one must also develop good habits and exercise self-control in order to act virtuously
Explain Aristotle’s perspective on the responsibility of moral actions
Aristotle asserts that individuals are responsible for their actions and should be punished for wrongdoing. Understanding the situation and choosing to act morally are crucial for virtuous behaviour
What is Aristotle’s view on the diversity of good lives?
Aristotle acknowledges that there are many paths to the good life, and the mean between extremes may vary for each individual
How does Aristotle define courage and what role does it play in ethical behaviour?
Courage, according to Aristotle, is the mean between cowardice and rashness. It is essential for facing danger with the right amount of fear and confidence
What does Aristotle propose as the ultimate aim of human life?
Aristotle propose as the ultimate aim of human life is contemplation and the pursuit of eternal and divine truths through reason. Happiness is achieved through virtuous action and contemplation
Explain Aristotle’s concept of happiness as the ultimate human good according to his Nicomachean Ethics. How does Aristotle relate happiness to virtue, reason, and moderation?
Aristotle posits that human good is achieved through the activity of the soul in accordance with virtue. He defines happiness as the highest achievable good, attainable through virtuous action. Virtue, both moral and intellectual, plays a central role in achieving happiness. Moral virtues, such as temperance and courage, moderate our passions and actions, while intellectual virtues involve the pursuit of knowledge and truth. Reason, essential for guiding human behavior, helps in achieving moderation and understanding the natural order of action. According to Aristotle, happiness stems from the harmonious integration of reason, virtue, and moderation, leading to a fulfilled and flourishing life
Compare and contrast Aristotle’s practical approach to ethics with Plato’s idealism. How does Aristotle’s emphasis on habituation and moderation differ from Plato’s focus on knowledge and ideal forms?
Aristotle and Plato both address ethical questions but differ in their approaches. While Plato emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge and ideal forms as the path to virtue, Aristotle takes a more practical stance. Aristotle believes that knowledge alone is insufficient for virtue and emphasizes the importance of habituation and moderation. Unlike Plato, who advocates for the contemplation of abstract ideals, Aristotle emphasizes the cultivation of good habits from a young age, leading to virtuous behavior. Aristotle’s philosophy focuses on the golden mean, advocating for moderation and balance in all actions, while Plato’s idealism revolves around the pursuit of absolute forms and ideals
Discuss Aristotle’s concept of moral virtue and the golden mean. How does he argue for the importance of moderation in achieving virtue?
Aristotle proposes the golden mean as a principle of moderation, asserting that virtue lies in finding the intermediate between two extremes. Moral virtue, according to Aristotle, involves the rational moderation of passions and actions. He illustrates this concept with examples such as courage, which lies between cowardice and rashness. Aristotle argues that excessive indulgence or repression leads to failure, while the mean represents success and virtue. The golden mean guides individuals towards balanced and virtuous conduct, promoting harmony and excellence in life
Explain Aristotle’s view on the relationship between reason, virtue, and moral responsibility. How does he define moral action and responsibility in ethical decision-making?
Aristotle believes that reason plays a crucial role in guiding moral action and responsibility. He asserts that moral virtues involve the rational moderation of passions and actions, guided by reason. According to Aristotle, individuals are responsible for their actions and should be held accountable for their choices. Moral action requires understanding the situation and willingly choosing the virtuous course of action. Aristotle emphasizes the importance of habituation and training in developing moral character, leading to responsible and virtuous behaviour
Analyse Aristotle’s criticism of moral extremes and his advocacy for the golden mean. How does he argue against actions and passions that fall into excess or deficiency?
Aristotle criticizes moral extremes, arguing that both excess and deficiency lead to failure and vice. He advocates for the golden mean as a principle of moderation, which guides individuals towards virtuous behaviour. Aristotle believes that actions and passions should be balanced, avoiding both excess and deficiency. He illustrates this concept with various examples, such as courage being the mean between cowardice and rashness. Aristotle argues that the golden mean promotes moral excellence and ensures the harmonious integration of reason, virtue, and moderation in human life
