Aristotle

Eudaimonia

The good life or well-lived life, which is both the aim of the state and the individual according to Aristotle.

Telos

An aim or purpose; the concept that everything has an ultimate goal or function.

Vita Activa

The active life, which involves public involvement and engagement.

Vita Contemplativa

The life of contemplation or quiet reflection.

Mesotes

The idea of finding a balance or mean between extremes, crucial to Aristotle's concept of virtue.

Zoon Politikon

A political animal; Aristotle's view that humans are inherently social beings who thrive in political communities.

Virtue of Thought

Character traits like wisdom and prudence that can be cultivated through learning.

Virtue of Character

Moral qualities developed through habituation and good habits over time.

According to Aristotle, what is the highest ruling science?

Political science, because it governs all other sciences and aims for the ultimate good.

Why does Aristotle consider external goods important for happiness?

Because external conditions, such as health and freedom, can significantly affect an individual's ability to be happy.

Political Science

The study of government and the state, which Aristotle argues is essential for cultivating virtue among citizens.

What distinguishes a good citizen from a good man according to Aristotle?

A good citizen must be able to both rule and be ruled, whereas a good man embodies complete virtue.

Habituation

The process of developing virtues through consistent practice and repetition.

Induction vs. Deduction

Induction involves reasoning from specific observations to broader generalizations, while deduction applies general principles to specific cases.

In Aristotle's ethical framework, what is deemed most critical for achieving happiness?

Living a complete life of virtue, not just experiencing happiness intermittently.

Why must a student of political science be of a certain age?

Because political science requires experience and maturity to understand the complexities of governance.

Anti-Foundationalism

The view that certain goods appear to be socially constructed rather than universally defined.

What does Aristotle mean by 'the good life'?

The pursuit of virtue and fulfillment of one's purpose, which relates to living well in community.

What is the significance of virtue being in 'mesotes'?

It emphasizes that virtue consists of finding the right balance between excess and deficiency.

Aristotle's view on happiness compared to Plato's

Aristotle believes happiness is achievable and grounded in virtuous action, while Plato sees it as an ideal that may never be fully realized in this world.

Political Governance

Aristotle's belief that governance should promote a life aimed at virtue and the common good.