Overview
This lecture examines Aristotle's concept of the "political life" focused on honor, his criticisms of happiness as honor, and introduces the pivotal notion of virtue in ethics.
The Political Life and the Pursuit of Honor
- Aristotle calls the political life a way of life devoted to action and interaction within a community.
- Human beings are social animals who collaborate and coordinate for survival and happiness.
- In political life, honor, reputation, and recognition from others are often seen as central goals.
- People of action (e.g., leaders, athletes) typically seek achievement in hopes of being honored for their greatness.
- Honor is desired for its own sake, separate from the pleasure it may bring.
Critique of Honor as the Highest Good
- Aristotle criticizes honor as happiness because it depends on the opinions and whims of others.
- Recognition and reputation can easily be taken away or withheld regardless of one's true achievements.
- Happiness, Aristotle argues, should rely more on oneself and not on external, changeable factors.
Virtue as the True Basis of Happiness
- Excellence in actions comes from cultivated traits and abilities, not merely external recognition.
- Real happiness arises from developing virtue—character traits that lead to consistent excellence.
- Presidents, athletes, and others may not always be recognized but are fulfilled by what they have achieved and the person they have become.
- Virtue, once developed, is stable and cannot be easily lost, unlike honor.
- Aristotle concludes that the true purpose and happiness for persons of action lie in virtue, not honor.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Political life — a life dedicated to action and community interaction, seeking honor or recognition.
- Honor — recognition and reputation granted by others for one's actions.
- Virtue — cultivated traits and abilities that enable a person to achieve excellence and true happiness.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Aristotle’s distinction between honor and virtue in your textbook.
- Reflect on examples of virtue versus honor in public figures for class discussion.