Intro to Aristotle's Ethics | Lecture 1: The Good

Summary

In this engaging lecture on Aristotle's 'Nicomachean Ethics,' the professor explores the fundamental principles of ethics, character, and the pursuit of the good. Drawing from Aristotle's belief that every action aims at some form of good, the speaker discusses the significance of choices in shaping character and living a virtuous life. The lecture introduces the idea of a hierarchy of goods, emphasizing the importance of striving for higher forms of good, such as health and victory, over mere craft or specific skills. Ultimately, the professor encourages students to reflect on their actions and pursue the highest good to live beautifully.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ethics is the study of how to live well and achieve happiness by cultivating a virtuous character.
• 😀 Aristotle's *Nicomachean Ethics* begins with the idea that every action and choice aims at some good.
• 😀 Character is formed through habitual actions and determines how we behave in various situations.
• 😀 Human freedom lies in the choices we make, which shape our character and life.
• 😀 Goodness is not just about knowing what is good but about becoming good through consistent effort.
• 😀 Ethics is about learning to choose wisely and understanding the hierarchy of goods in life.
• 😀 Happiness, according to Aristotle, is not just pleasure but living a virtuous and fulfilling life.
• 😀 The highest good is living beautifully, an idea shared in both Greek and Christian thought.
• 😀 The goods we pursue in life vary and are arranged in a hierarchy, with some being more important than others.
• 😀 Every action, inquiry, or work we do is directed toward some good, and understanding what that good is shapes our decisions.
• 😀 The ultimate goal of life is not just personal satisfaction but achieving a well-lived, virtuous life through conscious choices.

Q & A

What is the purpose of sending Aristotle's 'Ethics' to every admitted freshman at Hillsdale College?

The purpose is to introduce students to the study of ethics and the question of how to live well, as well as to familiarize them with one of the greatest works on this subject.

Why does the speaker say ethics is an urgent subject?

Ethics is urgent because it deals with how to live well and be good, which is crucial to human happiness and well-being.

What does Aristotle mean by the phrase 'every action and every choice aims at some good'?

Aristotle is suggesting that all human actions, decisions, and inquiries are directed towards achieving some form of good, even if the good is not always immediately clear or right.

What role does character play in human success and happiness according to the speaker?

Character plays a dominant role in determining success and happiness. While credentials might open doors initially, it is one’s character that shapes their long-term success and personal growth.

How does Aristotle's definition of ethics differ from modern perceptions of education?

Modern education often encourages students to become whatever they want to be, without focusing on moral development, whereas Aristotle's ethics emphasizes becoming good and developing the right character.

What is the significance of the Greek word 'character' as mentioned in the lecture?

The Greek word for character refers to something deeply ingrained in a person, like a mark or tattoo, emphasizing that character is not superficial but a deep and lasting part of one’s being.

What does the speaker mean by 'the good' being 'a thing being fully what it is'?

The good is defined as a thing fulfilling its purpose or nature. A good glass, for example, is one that performs its intended function without defect.

Why is the concept of choice so central to Aristotle’s ethics?

Choice is central because it is through our choices that we build our character and shape our lives. Each choice we make has significant consequences on who we become.

How does the speaker explain the difference between aiming at some good and the action itself being good?

The difference lies in the moral quality of the action. While every action aims at some perceived good, not all actions are inherently good. For example, committing murder may aim at a perceived good, but it is morally wrong.

What is the relationship between different 'ends' or 'goods' as discussed in the transcript?

Different goods or ends are hierarchical. Higher goods, such as health or victory, are more important and desirable than lower goods, like making a bridle or practicing horsemanship, because they serve a greater purpose.