/lit/ - Literature

>>18107214
To be a 'good person' for Aristotle meant to be a 'good' person in the same way a steinway is a 'good piano': something that excels in its function. As in, someone that completes the unique final cause and telos of a human being. If you recall the human function argument near the start of the book, that means 'an activity of soul which follows or implies a rational principle'. What that means is embodying rational judgement in your activities. 'Eudaimonia' is not 'Arete', it is not 'virtue' but 'flourishing'—flourishing as a human being towards his end. Which, as we know, is excellence in the use of the rational function. What is good is not some species of activity, but the correct conduct in all species of activity. And the correct conduct in all species of activity means the rational conduct in all species of activity. This is done through the application of what he calls 'phronesis' (practical application of rationality/practical wisdom). But you actually have to hone your phronesis through activity. That is what it means to have a moral education—to get out there and do moral things!
You want to be a good person? well, you already have everything you need, except experience. You should have a natural rational function already, you're a human being after all, but if you never use it then you can never fulfill your human function. Remember, a telos is a direction as much as it is an end, it means continual movement towards excellence demonstrated over a lifetime of correct rational decisions. All the talk of the golden mean, of magnanimity, of prudence and fortitude and courage—it's not meant to be a reference book for you to look up whenever you're in trouble. It's a demonstration that what is right in each situation is finding the correct degree of action through practical reason, to thread between the extremes which are both harmful and incorrect using your phronesis. And every virtue you end up possesing—your wisdom, your courage, your magnificence—is a demonstration of that very excellent phronesis, your human flourishing.
So get yourself some natural slaves to work your oikos, get married and be the patriarch of your family, and practice your phronesis by acquiring virtues in the everyday demands of the public life! Like a mighty oak hidden in an acorn, there is an excellent man in you—you just need to show it!

My second attempt at baking a pie and the crust was perfect. Soon all baked goods will fall under MY command!

Happy New Years /lit/! This year has been a resounding confirmation of my ethos and a huge morale boost for me. For everyone out there who has anxieties or trepidation about the year to come, take heart! There is so much you do, if you only have the will to believe.