ARISTOTLE
(1) According to Aristotle, while people may disagree about to how to achieve it,
everyone ultimately desires the same “End” or goal, which for Aristotle is
“Happiness.” Why does he refer to it as an “Activity” that only “Man” can
experience or appreciate? Why does he say neither animals nor children are
“Happy” in his view? Be specific? How does Aristotle define “Happiness?
(2) How does Aristotle distinguish between “Intrinsic” Vs. “Extrinsic” values? Give
examples of each. Why does he identify “Happiness” as “Intrinsically” valuable?
What makes something “Intrinsically” valuable “In it-self” or worthwhile for its own
sake compared to something being “Extrinsically” Valuable or worthwhile?
Carefully explain. Consider class discussion about the “Car” in Ferris B Day Off.
Why do most of us view our cars as “Extrinsically” valuable” not “Intrinsically?”
(3) According to Aristotle, people are not born “good” or “bad” rather he emphasizes
the importance of “Habit” and practicing good virtues. Why does he say that the
Habits we form from “our very youth” are so important? Consider his discussion of
how one actually becomes virtuous, i.e., courageous, patient, trustworthy, and
temperate or the converse: immoral, i.e., cowardly, Impatient disloyal, and easily
angered or intemperate. How does practicing bravery or patience make one
actually become brave and patient? Think about athletics or music. How do we
become good at these things? Remember Phil from Groundhog Day. How does
he change and grow through out the movie? Think about what kind of guy he was
before Groundhog Day and what kind of person he eventually becomes.
(4) Why does Aristotle believe while an action can be praised as right or good, may
not necessarily be Virtuous? Give reasons and examples like giving a large sum
of money to charity for a tax break or for praise and adulation rather than being
motivated by generosity or selflessness. Explain.
(5) What, does Aristotle mean the “Function of Man” or purpose of mankind is to
“Reason in accordance with virtue?” Carefully explain. How does this idea relate
to why a person would give the “Wallet” back? How is one practicing virtue or
vice by returning or not returning the wallet? Give reasons. Why would Aristotle
certainly return it to its rightful owner? Give reasons.
