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 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.
