

#515: Aristotle's Wisdom on Living the Good Life
8 snips Jun 10, 2019
Edith Hall, a classicist and author of "Aristotle's Way," delves into timeless lessons from Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics. She contrasts ancient views on the good life with modern happiness, emphasizing virtue as essential for flourishing. Hall offers insights on handling misfortune, making sound decisions, and nurturing meaningful relationships, which are pivotal for personal fulfillment. Her discussion highlights the balance of emotions and intentions in ethical dilemmas, illustrating how Aristotle's wisdom remains relevant today.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Aristotle's Impact
- Edith Hall's initial encounter with Aristotle's work stemmed from a personal quest for meaning after losing her religious faith.
- His philosophy offered a secular framework for understanding life's purpose and achieving happiness, distinct from religious dogma.
Aristotle vs Plato
- Aristotle's interests were broader than Plato's, encompassing science, politics, and aesthetics.
- He's considered a more significant intellectual figure due to his wide-ranging inquiries into various aspects of human life.
Human-centric Ethics
- Aristotle's ethics views humans as advanced animals responsible for their own happiness.
- It emphasizes studying and implementing practices that maximize happiness (felicity).