Nicomachean Ethics · Chapter
XI explained
Aristotle examines the extent to which the fortunes of descendants and friends affect the happiness of the dead, concluding that while such events may have some slight influence, they are not significant enough to alter the happiness of tho
What happens
Aristotle examines the extent to which the fortunes of descendants and friends affect the happiness of the dead, concluding that while such events may have some slight influence, they are not significant enough to alter the happiness of those who have passed.
Themes in this chapter
The Good and Happiness
Explores whether external events can affect the happiness of the dead, concluding they have minimal impact.
Friendship and Community
Considers the role of friends' fortunes in relation to the departed.
Characters to notice
- Aristotle
Author of the argument; discusses the impact of friends' fortunes on the dead.
Key passages
“the doctrine that they do not affect the departed at all seems too cold and too much opposed to popular opinion.”
The idea that the dead are completely unaffected by their descendants' fortunes is too harsh and contradicts common belief.
Aristotle acknowledges the tension between philosophical rigor and popular sentiment.
“it is a doubtful question whether the dead are at all accessible to good and ill.”
Whether the dead can experience any good or evil is uncertain.
Highlights the epistemological uncertainty in the discussion.
“the prosperity, and likewise the adversity, of friends does affect the dead, but not in such a way or to such an extent as to make the happy unhappy, or to do anything of the kind.”
The fortunes of friends do have some effect on the dead, but not enough to change their state of happiness.
Aristotle's balanced conclusion on the matter.