For human beings, the ultimate goal of life is to attain happiness. According to the hedonistic perspective, the force behind one’s motivation to perform any task is one’s desire to attain pleasure and avoid pain. Following from this view of thought, individuals plan out their long term and short terms goals with an unconscious idea to maximize their happiness and pleasurable experiences. However, an argument comes to light that is many individuals choose to perform undesirable tasks such as working, studying or performing moral actions, thus defying the perspective of the hedonistic philosophers. Considering this, it can be stated that while these activities are unappealing for the time being, they also offer a reward in the years to come. Hence, people sacrifice the short-term happiness to attain a secure future, free of the stress inducing elements.
Keeping this in mind, it can also be assumed that happiness is an inconsistent state, which is only felt after one experiences a contrasting emotion- pain. For that purpose, the ancient Greek philosophers aimed towards achieving a state of contentment rather than happiness. Amongst these intellectuals was Aristotle. In his work, Aristotle has presented the concept of Eudemonia, which roughly translates to the state of having a good spirit. According to him, moving towards the achievement of this state should be the objective of every individual’s life. Eudemonia can be described in the ensuing ways:
History of the concept: Even though Aristotle developed the concept of Eudemonia, similar theories were given by his predecessors such as Socrates and Plato. By taking a closer look at the work of Socrates, it can be found that his philosophy was also aligned with the teachings expressed by the concept of Eudemonia. He believed that when human beings are involved in virtuous acts such as wisdom, courage, justice, and self-control, they can truly feel contended with life.
Similarly, Plato suggested that evil individuals tend to feel guilt after performing an immoral action, regardless of experiencing no punishment for their wrongdoings. As a result, they are miserable. To avoid such state, he believed that one should engage in rational and moral actions that guide them toward leading a more fulfilling life.
However, Aristotle coined the term in his work, "Nicomachean Ethics" where he suggested that Eudemonia is a state of contentment that can be achieved not by performing moral activities, but rather by engaging in rational actions that are aligned with one’s virtues.
However, Aristotle coined the term in his work, "Nicomachean Ethics" where he suggested that Eudemonia is a state of contentment that can be achieved not by performing moral activities, but rather by engaging in rational actions that are aligned with one’s virtues.
Aristotle’s view on contentment: Aristotle believed that contentment is not the result of having immersive wealth or power, but it is a state that people can reach in their day to day life. His work indicates the concept of self-actualization, which is described to mark the achievement of one’s optimum state of human function. Essentially, Aristotle believed in the gratification of one’s virtues that can consequently, lead to a happy and fulfilling life. His work states that when one’s individualistic needs along with their mental and physical well-being are satisfied, the person can consequently be pleased with their life. However, Aristotle also argued that while individuals should focus on pleasing their individual needs, they are also required to maintain an equilibrium between two poles of extremes. Conversely, in contrast to the teachings Of Buddha (who stated that to be happy, one should eliminate desire), Aristotle suggested that this balance should be maintained in the process of engaging in virtuous actions.
How to achieve Eudemonia: As mentioned earlier, Aristotle stressed that Eudemonia could only be achieved when the individual performs rational actions regarding their virtues. On that account, Aristotle creates his argument by distinguishing men from the other living species. As his philosophy follows the cosmological order of placing men at the top of the hierarchy, his work states that human beings are different from other species due to their ability to think, reason and deliberate before making any choice. Subsequently, Aristotle states that happiness for human beings can be achieved by making rational decisions by one’s virtues.
Here, the virtues signify actions that the individual can proficiently perform, which are also morally right. For instance, the writers offered by “Do My Coursework” services have the talent and the ability to write exceptional academic papers. Furthermore, as these individuals are assisting students that struggle with their academic tasks, their actions are moral. Hence, according to Aristotle, the academic writers can attain the state of eudemonia in their day to day functioning.
Aristotle’s concept of Eudemonia has contributed largely to the field of sociology, psychology, and philosophy. Although his theory fails to highlight and define the virtuous actions, it has still become the foundation in the development of various therapeutic techniques in the field of psychology. Furthermore, as this concept applies to be utilized by all individuals, every human being can integrate it into their daily lives to be truly satisfied!
