Telos Flashcards
What is the greatest good of a thing in Aristotle’s view?
For Aristotle the aim (telos) of something can be seen as it’s greatest good.
Explain purpose and eudaimonia?
Aristotle believed that all things in the natural world have an intrinsic purpose / goal towards which they strive towards. He argued that fulfilling this inherent purpose leads to the highest level of flourishing or eudaimonia.
How does the view of Telos agree with Theistic viewpoints?
Theistic perspectives hold the belief in a divine plan and purposeful design, this aligns with Aristotle’s understanding of a final cause in the natural world.
What is the Fallacy of Composition against Telos?
The fallacy of composition is the false assumption that what is true of the parts is true of the whole. Not all things seem to have an intrinsic purpose.
How is Telos subjective?
The intrinsic purpose or Telos of something can vary based on personal experiences, its subjective nature can make purpose challenging to define. Contradicting the fact that Telos is supposed to be intrinsic and objective.
What is the Existential argument against Telos?
Sartre, an existentialist, argued that we make our own purpose. He argued that fear of not having a purpose led people to cling to fabricated notions of objective set purpose, such as religion or Aristotle’s ‘final cause/telos’. Sartre stated that believing in intrinsic purpose is easier than facing existential angst.
