Nicomachean Ethics · Chapter
Book I explained
Aristotle begins his inquiry into the highest good, which he identifies as happiness (eudaimonia).
What happens
Aristotle begins his inquiry into the highest good, which he identifies as happiness (eudaimonia). He argues that happiness is the final, self-sufficient end of all human action and defines it as an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue. He introduces the function argument, concluding that the good of man is the exercise of his rational faculties in accordance with excellence. He distinguishes parts of the soul and discusses the role of virtue, the necessity of a complete life, and the influence of fortune, referencing Solon and Priam.
Themes in this chapter
The Good and Happiness
Happiness is identified as the final, self-sufficient end of all human action, defined as activity of the soul in accordance with virtue.
Virtue and Character
Virtue is essential for happiness; the statesman must understand the soul to cultivate good citizens.
Practical Wisdom and Reason
The rational part of the soul is central to human function, and reason guides virtuous action.
Characters to notice
- Aristotle
Primary author and philosopher presenting the inquiry into happiness, virtue, and the function of man.
- Solon
Quoted regarding the saying that one should wait until the end of life to call a man happy.
- Priam
Used as an example of a prosperous man who met with great disasters in old age, illustrating the instability of fortune.
Key passages
“The function of man, then, is exercise of his vital faculties [or soul] on one side in obedience to reason, and on the other side with reason.”
The unique purpose of a human being is to actively use their soul's capacities, both following reason and engaging in rational activity.
This is the core of Aristotle's function argument, linking human good to rational activity.
“For one swallow or one fine day does not make a spring, nor does one day or any small space of time make a blessed or happy man.”
A single good moment does not constitute a happy life; happiness requires sustained virtuous activity over a complete lifetime.
Emphasizes the temporal dimension of happiness and the need for a full term of years.
“Happiness is believed to be the most desirable thing in the world, and that not merely as one among other good things.”
Happiness is not just another good to be added to others; it is the ultimate end that makes all other goods desirable.
Highlights the final and self-sufficient nature of happiness as the highest good.