Aristotelian Philosophy on Happiness: Aristotle

The Concept of Eudaimonia

Aristotle’s view on happiness is encapsulated in the concept of eudaimonia, often
translated as flourishing or well-being. Unlike the fleeting nature of pleasure,
eudaimonia is about realizing one's potential and living a life of virtue. Aristotle
saw happiness not as a state of being but as an activity – living in accordance with
reason and virtue over a complete life.
Virtuous Actions and the Golden Mean
Aristotle believed that virtuous actions are central to achieving eudaimonia. Virtue
lies in the "Golden Mean," which is the balance between excess and deficiency of
traits and behaviors. For example, courage is the mean between recklessness and
cowardice. Living a happy life, according to Aristotle, involves finding this balance
in all aspects of life, from personal conduct to social interactions.
The Role of External Goods
While Aristotle emphasized the importance of virtuous activities in achieving
happiness, he also acknowledged the role of external goods like wealth, health,
and friends. He argued that these are not essential for happiness but can support
the virtuous activities that lead to eudaimonia. Happiness is ultimately about
fulfilling one's nature in a complete life, where external goods play a supportive
role in facilitating virtuous actions.