Nicomachean Ethics is written by who?

It is one of the most influential works on ethics and virtue.

It focuses on how individuals can achieve eudaimonia through virtuous living.

human flourishing or happiness)

Even though it was written over 2,000 years ago, many of its principles still relate to modern ethical concepts.

Happiness as the Highest Good

Aristotle believed that the ultimate goal of human life is ___, which means living a fulfilling and virtuous life.

Today, this is similar to discussions about well-being, life satisfaction, and self-actualization (Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs).

Moral Character Over Rules

Aristotle argued that ethics is not just about following rules but about developing good character (virtues) like courage, wisdom, and temperance.

Many modern ethical theories, such as character education and positive psychology, emphasize personal development and ethical decision-making.

Balance in Life

Virtue is found in moderation, avoiding both excess and deficiency (e.g., courage is between recklessness and cowardice).

This idea is reflected in concepts like work-life balance, emotional intelligence, and moderation in habits (e.g., healthy eating and exercise).

Phronesis

Ethical decision-making requires experience, critical thinking, and sound judgment.

This is similar to ethical leadership, decision-making in business, and professional ethics in law, medicine, and technology

Aristotle believed that virtue is developed through habit—we become good by consistently practicing good actions.

This aligns with ideas in habit formation, self-discipline, and cognitivebehavioral psychology (e.g., building good habits for success)

Aristotle believed that virtue is developed through

The Role of Society

A good life is not just individual but requires a just society and good relationships

This is seen in social ethics, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and discussions about justice and equality in society today.

It remains highly relevant in today’s world

Its principles are reflected in modern psychology, business ethics, leadership, and personal development.

By understanding his teachings, we can apply ancient wisdom to modern challenges and strive for a balanced, ethical, and fulfilling life.

an important ancient Greek philosopher

Work spans from natural philosophy to logical and political theory

quote "The good has been rightly declares as that at which all things aim.”

characterized by happiness that springs from living and doing well

an effort to achieve self-actualization and fulfillment within the context if a larger community of individuals, each with the right to pursue his or her own such efforts.

concepts of living and doing well

It means good

It means Spirit

It is a central aim of stoic (enduring) philosophy

ultimate end of human action

People pursue for its own sake

Defines a good life

Comes from living a life of virtue, a life of excellence

For Aristotle, ultimate happiness would be

practice of doing good no matter how difficult circumstance may be

2 kinds of virtue

Virtue through teaching (requires experience and time)

Virtue through habit

we must practice to achieve happiness

the ability to “deliberate well about what is good and advantageous for oneself.”

restraint, usually with regard to pleasurable activities

the tendency to act in order to achieve some good even facing the risk of physical harm

reflection on eternal truths

Virtue we must practice to achieve happiness:

To seek pleasure, comfort, satisfaction

To avoid pain and discomfort

Focus on the self, the present moment, and the tangible

Focus on taking and consuming what one needs and wants

Happiness is of hedonic kind (Bentham and Hobbes)

movements towards a good life

Highest expressions of human faculties

Allow us to thrive and flourish in life