Great Books

christopher

"Human greatness does not lie in wealth or power, but in character and goodness."

Anne Frank

Aristotle Ethics, Bk I, Ch 5

What is happiness for a human being? Here Aristotle promptly rejects pleasure, honor, and wealth. 

(I think this dismissal of honor is especially sharp and worth meditating on frequently)

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Yup, Pleasure is shared with animals and lacks higher fulfillment; wealth is merely a means to other ends; and honor depends on others' perceptions and is sought as recognition of virtue, not for its own sake. True happiness for Aristotle is the activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, which is self-sufficient and the ultimate goal of human life.

By focusing on cultivating virtue, we engage in a more meaningful and fulfilling life, one that isn't dependent on external circumstances or others' approval. This approach encourages personal growth, integrity, and self-sufficiency. The happiness most people pursue is the fleeting kind, very sad