Nicomachean Ethics

The Nicomachean Ethics is a philosophical work by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. It explores the concept of ethics and the path to achieving a good and fulfilling life. Aristotle examines what it means to live well and how individuals can attain happiness through virtuous living.

• Happiness (Eudaimonia): Aristotle argues that the ultimate goal of human life is eudaimonia, often translated as happiness or flourishing. This state is achieved by living a life of virtue and fulfilling one's potential.
• Virtue (Arete): Virtue is a trait of character manifested in habitual action. Aristotle distinguishes between moral virtues (like courage and generosity) and intellectual virtues (like wisdom and understanding).
• The Golden Mean: Virtue lies in finding the balance between excess and deficiency. For example, courage is the mean between recklessness and cowardice.
• Practical Wisdom (Phronesis): This is the ability to deliberate well about what is good and beneficial for oneself. It's essential for making moral decisions.

The Nicomachean Ethics is divided into ten books, each focusing on different aspects of ethical theory:

• Book I: Discusses the concept of happiness and the highest good.
• Book II: Introduces moral virtue and the importance of habituation.
• Book III: Explores voluntary and involuntary actions, and specific virtues like courage and temperance.
• Book IV: Examines other moral virtues such as generosity and magnanimity.
• Book V: Focuses on justice and fairness.
• Book VI: Discusses intellectual virtues and practical wisdom.
• Book VII: Addresses weakness of will and self-control.
• Books VIII & IX: Analyze friendship and its role in the good life.
• Book X: Considers pleasure and the life of contemplation as the highest form of happiness.

Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics has had a profound impact on Western philosophy and ethical thought. It laid the groundwork for virtue ethics, emphasizing character and the virtues in moral philosophy. The work continues to be studied and referenced in discussions about how to live a good and meaningful life.

• H. Rackham translation plus Greek version (The Perseus Project)
• "Nicomachean Ethics Study Guide". sparknotes.
• Nicomachean Ethics public domain audiobook at LibriVox
• PDFs of several (now) public domain translations and commentaries on the Nicomachean Ethics