Aristotle’s Theory of the Union of the Good Life, Happiness, and Virtue

Aristotle’s Theory of the Union of the Good Life, Happiness, and Virtue

Aristotle was one of the most influential philosophers in the history of Western thought. He believed that the ultimate goal of human life is happiness, which he defined as “the activity of the soul in accordance with virtue” (Nicomachean Ethics, 1098a). For Aristotle, happiness is not a state of mind or a feeling, but a way of living that expresses our true nature and potential as rational beings.

According to Aristotle, there are two kinds of virtues: moral and intellectual. Moral virtues are habits of character that enable us to act well in practical situations, such as courage, justice, generosity, and self-control. Intellectual virtues are habits of mind that enable us to reason well in theoretical matters, such as wisdom, understanding, and insight. Both kinds of virtues are acquired by practice and education, and both are necessary for happiness.

However, Aristotle also argues that there is a hierarchy among the virtues, and that some are more important than others for achieving happiness. He claims that the highest and most complete virtue is theoretical wisdom (sophia), which is the ability to contemplate the most fundamental truths about reality. Theoretical wisdom is the essence of human happiness, because it is the activity that most fully expresses our rational nature and brings us closest to the divine. Theoretical contemplation (theoria) is the most enjoyable, self-sufficient, and lasting activity that humans can perform, and it is the ultimate purpose of human life.

This does not mean that practical activities are irrelevant or worthless for happiness. Aristotle acknowledges that humans are not only rational, but also social and political animals, who need to interact with others and contribute to the common good. He also recognizes that humans have bodily and material needs, such as health, wealth, and friends, that must be satisfied for a happy life. Therefore, he advocates a balanced and harmonious life that includes both theoretical and practical activities, as well as external goods.

However, he also warns that practical activities and external goods are not ends in themselves, but means to an end. They are valuable only insofar as they support and enhance our theoretical contemplation, which is the highest end. Moreover, they are contingent and variable, subject to change and decay. Therefore, they cannot provide us with lasting and complete happiness. Only theoretical contemplation can do that, because it is based on the eternal and unchanging nature of reality.

Aristotle’s theory of happiness has been influential and controversial throughout history. Some have praised it as a profound and inspiring vision of human excellence and fulfillment. Others have criticized it as elitist and unrealistic, neglecting the diversity and complexity of human lives. Whether one agrees or disagrees with Aristotle’s theory, it is undeniable that he offers a rich and challenging account of what it means to live well as a human being.

Works Cited

Aristotle. Nicomachean Ethics. Translated by W.D. Ross. The Internet Classics Archive. http://classics.mit.edu/Aristotle/nicomachaen.html

Reece, Bryan C. “Happiness According to Aristotle.” CHS Research Bulletin 7 (2019). https://research-bulletin.chs.harvard.edu/2019/03/15/happiness-aristotle/

The Pursuit of Happiness. “Aristotle: Pioneer of Happiness tropicalessays.com.” https://www.pursuit-of-happiness.org/history-of-happiness/aristotle/

Wong, Paul T.P. “Aristotle’s Principles For a Good Life.” Medium (2022). https://medium.com/personal-growth/aristotles-principles-for-a-good-life-9f474a5f02bc