ECON 103 Lecture 15: aristotle
Document Summary
Aristotle emphasizes that pleasure is not to be sought for its own sake since pleasure itself is the natural accompaniment of unimpeded activity. Happiness is the purpose of human existence, the exercise of virtue: aristotle argues that the virtuous habit of action is an intermediate state between the opposing vices of deficiency and excess. Aristotle therefore advices people to avoid extremes and seek moderation in an attempt to live a fulfilling life: happiness makes all other goods desirable for its sake. Happiness is desirable in itself and not for the sake of something else, making it self sufficient and final. Happiness also makes all other goods desirable for its own sake: aristotle argues that to discover the function of a human being is very important if we are to discover the human good. Aristotle establishes that human good is rational activity performed well, which according to aristotle is performed with virtue.
