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The Nicomachean Ethics
400 pages, 2004
philosophy
711 booksIn Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle sets out to examine the nature of happiness. He argues that happiness consists in the ‘activity of the soul in accordance with virtue’, for example with moral virtues, such as courage, generosity, and justice, and intellectual virtues, such as knowledge, wisdom, and insight.
Ethics also discusses the nature of practical reasoning, the value, and the objects of pleasure, the different forms of friendship, and the relationship between individual virtue, society, and the State.
Aristotle’s work has had a profound and lasting influence on all subsequent Western thought about ethical matters. J. A. K. Thomson’s translation has been revised by Hugh Tredennick and is accompanied by a new introduction by Jonathan Barnes. This edition also includes an updated list for further reading and a new chronology of Aristotle’s life and works.
Aristotle believes that all human actions aim at some good. He identifies that good as happiness and sees it as the highest goal of human life. So, if you're looking for a reason to prioritize your happiness, check out The Nicomachean Ethics.
Aristotle introduces the concept of the 'Golden Mean'. This is the idea that virtue lies between extremes. For example, courage is a virtue, but if taken to an extreme, it can become recklessness. This book will help you find balance in your life.
Aristotle emphasizes the importance of habit in moral education. He suggests that virtues are not just inherited, but can be acquired through practice. If you're looking to develop good habits, this book provides a great framework.
In The Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle explores the concept of friendship. He sees it as one of the most important human relationships and divides it into three types: friendships of utility, pleasure, and virtue. Take a look at this book to understand more about the value of different friendships in your life.
Aristotle argues that the function of a human being is to engage in an activity of the soul in accordance with reason. This means that to live a good life, we must use our reason to guide our actions. If you're interested in exploring this concept further, this book is a must-read.
Quotes 5
Aristotle's 'Nicomachean Ethics' is a profound exploration of the concept of virtue and its role in leading a fulfilling life.
Immanuel Kant - Philosophy, Ethics, EpistemologyAristotle's 'Nicomachean Ethics' provides a comprehensive guide to moral virtue and the path to happiness.
Thomas Aquinas - Theology, Philosophy, ScholasticismAristotle's 'Nicomachean Ethics' is a testament to the power of human reason and its capacity to discern the good life.
Friedrich Nietzsche - Philosophy, Cultural CriticismAristotle's 'Nicomachean Ethics' is a profound exploration of the essence of human existence and the nature of the good life.
Martin Heidegger - Existentialism, PhenomenologyAristotle's 'Nicomachean Ethics' is a foundational text in the history of moral philosophy, offering a robust account of virtue and the good life.
Alasdair MacIntyre - Ethics, Political Philosophy