Type of Book: Philosophical Treatise
Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, written in the 4th century BCE, is one of the foundational texts of Western moral philosophy. Named after his son Nicomachus, the work delves into the nature of ethical living and the pursuit of happiness, presenting a framework for understanding virtue and the good life.
Aristotle argues that the ultimate goal of human life is eudaimonia, often translated as “happiness” or “flourishing.” He posits that true happiness comes from living virtuously, where virtue is a disposition to act in ways that benefit both oneself and society. As he famously states, “The good for man is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue.”
The treatise is divided into ten books, covering various aspects of ethics, including the nature of virtue, moral responsibility, and the importance of friendship. Aristotle emphasizes the doctrine of the mean, which suggests that virtue lies in finding a balanced approach between extremes. For example, courage is a mean between recklessness and cowardice.
One of the book’s key insights is the idea that moral virtues are cultivated through habit. Aristotle asserts, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” As I’ve grown older and learned more, I find myself returning time and again to this ancient philosophy. Eudaimonia resonates strongly with me as a guide for cultivating happiness in life. I believe Aristotle had it right, and his ideas have been refined over the years by many other thinkers.
I particularly enjoy the focus that Aristotle places on habit because habits are the way we create our lives—brick by brick. While I resonate strongly with Aristotle’s conception of the mean, I find the concept of being virtuous through habituation to be a greater challenge. Perhaps it’s because many have used religion to impose virtue upon society, often with the opposite effect. I wish to separate Aristotle from any religious connotations and reclaim the term “virtue” as a fundamental human capability.
Aristotle’s views on friendship are both understandable and relatable. When we encounter another person face-to-face, we recognize our shared humanity, which fosters empathy and reinforces the golden rule. This sense of connection underscores the significance of relationships in the pursuit of a good life.
What I Thought About the Book
Though I haven’t read Nicomachean Ethics in its entirety, I have extensively studied Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia and consider him an ancient thinker who had it right—finding the middle ground is essential for achieving happiness. I believe that Aristotle’s insights remain relevant today and can guide us toward a more fulfilling life. In fact, eudaimonia serves as a precursor to modern positive psychology, highlighting the timelessness of his ideas.
Have You Read It?
- What did you find most compelling about Aristotle’s view of virtue?
- How do you think Aristotle’s ideas on happiness relate to modern concepts of well-being?
- Do you agree with the idea that virtue is a mean between extremes? Why or why not?
- In what ways do you think the emphasis on habit in developing virtue can be applied to your life?
- How does Aristotle’s notion of friendship resonate with your own experiences and relationships?
Recommended for These Types of Readers
- Philosophy Enthusiasts: If you’re interested in the foundations of ethical thought and want to explore the complexities of moral reasoning, this book is for you.
- Self-Improvement Seekers: Those looking to cultivate virtues and enhance their character will find valuable insights.
- Students of Ethics: Perfect for anyone studying moral philosophy, Nicomachean Ethics provides essential knowledge and context for understanding virtue ethics.
- Lovers of Classic Literature: Fans of classic works will appreciate Aristotle’s engaging style and depth of thought.