Aristotle; The nature of Virtue

Teleology

Phenomena are explained in terms of the purpose / function they serve.

• Ex: The acorn grows into an oak tree because that is their purpose.

Teleological Knife Example

Fact: Most knives are sharp

• Most knives are sharp because their purpose is to cut things, and being sharp is necessary for that function.

Eudaimonia

Flourishing, living well, and happiness.

• It is a type of activity, a way of living.

  • It is not subjective and episodic.

    • It is the good for people.

Living well for part of life, achieved Eudaimonia?

For part of their life, No.

• Eudaimonia is a characteristic of a whole life, not part of one.

  • It is not episodic.

The Function Argument

1. Eudaimonia is the good for human beings.

2. the good for a thing consists of performing its function well.

3. The function of a human being is to act on the basis of reason.

4. SO, Eudaimonia consists of acting on the basis of reason well.

5. SO, Eudaimonia consists of acting on the basis of reason in accordance with the virtues.

The Function of Human Beings

According to Aristotle the function of man is an activity of soul which follows or implies a rational principle.

• Not just living, perceiving or feeling.

  • Our function is reasoning and acting according to reason.

    • Rational activity of the soul in accordance with virtue.

Why does Aristotle think that is our function?

He thinks this because each kind of being has a function that distinguishes it from others.

• Humans are extremely rational, therefore the human function must involve the use of reason.

  • One that reasons well.

Virtue

A quality that helps a thing fulfill its function.

• It concerns excellence, not morality.

Function

A thing’s characteristic form of activity.

• Must be distinctive

  • Makes something the kind of thing that it is.

Connection between virtue and eudaimonia

Virtue is necessary for eudaimonai because it allows a person to reason and act well, which is the core of a flourishing life.

Why isn’t being virtuous enough for eudaimonia?

Virtue is necessary but not sufficient for eudaimonia.

• External goods and a stable life are also needed so that one’s virtue can actually be lived out.

  • Ex: born into disease and poverty. Make sure we have friends, wealth, and health.

Why is courage a virtue?

Courage is a virtue because it helps us act nobly and consistently in the face of fear, preserving our commitment to reason and moral principle.

• Without it, we might know what is right but lack the strength to do it.

Would Aristotle say that Jimmy is brave?

No

• Standing up to the bully is totally out of character for jimmy, even though he did the right thing.

  • He usually runs away and avoids confrontations.

How do we become virtuous?

Those that aren’t born virtuous, have to practice and learn it like a skill.

• You are going to need help and a teacher.

  • Can’t do it by yourself.

    • Like learning how to play an instrument.