Aristotle Flashcards
key ideas of a just society according to Aristotle
coercion is the symptom of injustice not the source of it; things distributed according to virtue;
telos = eudaimonia
virtues according to Aristotle
“the Golden Mean”; means between vices of excess and defect
ex. Cowardice (vice of defect)
Bravery (virtue)
Foolhardiness (vice of excess)
how to become virtuous according to Aristotle
education, practice or habit
virtue feedback loop
you want to get strong so you eat a lot and workout or you want to be brave so you despise fear and stand your ground
how does the polis encourage virtue
forming habits in citizens, laws encourage virtuous habits, provides stage for rehearsal of highest human virtues
justice feedback loop
want a just society so you form habits of virtue and practical wisdom
key role of government according to Aristotle
distributive justices is about offices or honors
role of politics = form good citizens and cultivate good character
objections to Aristotle
who decides what the good life is?
being “fit” can lead to subordination by those in power
