Moral: Aristotle virtue ethics 4, Aristotle on pleasure Flashcards
What is the role of pleasure in moral life according to Aristotle?
Pleasure accompanies unimpeded activity of our faculties.
What does ‘unimpeded’ mean in the context of pleasure?
Nothing inhibits it/gets in the way.
How is pleasure created when using a sense?
When that sense is at its best and used in relation to its best object.
Give an example of pleasure in using a sense.
Looking at something beautiful, with 20/20 vision, with no distractions.
What is pleasure inseparable from?
Activity.
How does pleasure relate to activity?
It ‘completes’ the activity, like the ‘bloom’ on youth.
What is a ‘consequent end’ in relation to pleasure?
A result of activity, but not separable from it.
Does pleasure intensify and support activity?
Yes.
Is pleasure considered good by Aristotle?
Yes, pleasure is good, and eudaimonia involves pleasure.
What is the first objection against pleasure?
The temperate person avoids pleasure.
How does Aristotle counter the first objection regarding temperance?
The temperate person avoids excess of bodily pleasures.
What is the second objection regarding the practically wise person?
The practically wise person doesn’t seek pleasure, but only avoids pain.
How does Aristotle respond to the second objection?
The practically wise person seeks pleasure in accordance with reason.
What is the third objection regarding pleasure and thought?
Pleasure interferes with thought.
How does Aristotle counter the third objection about pleasure?
The pleasures of thinking assist it.
What is the fourth objection about all pleasures?
Not all pleasures are good, e.g. taking pleasure in something disgraceful.
What is Aristotle’s response to the fourth objection?
All real pleasures are good; disgraceful pleasures are not really pleasures.
What does Aristotle argue regarding the aim of every creature?
Every creature aims at pleasure.
What does Aristotle say about pleasure and pain?
Everything avoids pain, so its contrary, pleasure, is good.
Do we choose pleasure for its own sake?
Yes, we choose pleasure for its own sake, not just for some further purpose.
What happens when pleasure is added to any good?
It makes it more desirable.
Fill in the blank: Pleasure accompanies ________ activity of our faculties.
unimpeded
For Aristotle, pleasure is a good, just not ________.
THE good
How does Aristotle answer the argument that pleasure can’t be a good since temperate people avoid it?
The temperate person avoids excess of bodily pleasures.
