Various Perspectives on a Good Life
There are various perspectives that can be adopted while describing the aspect of good life. Some people claim that having a good life is being successful in life pursuits such as career and having a good family. Others describe good life as having the peace of mind, having moderate wealth, and having a good social status. Each person has a point of view from which he/she describes the idea of living a good life. Aristotle the philosopher presented their perspective on a good life and based his argument on aspects of money, success, pleasure, and relationships. From Aristotle's point of view, it can be stated that living a good life entails striking a balance between material possession, natural abilities, and learned virtues.
Money as a Means to an End
Money is termed as a medium that has the capacity to purchase numerous things to make a person live a good life. Success is termed as the ultimate goal of living a good life. People consider success as the perfect description of a good life. Therefore, many people have the perspective that if they have much money and amass a lot of wealth they will be able to live a good life. Aristotle considers money as a means to an end hence it cannot be described as the main aspect of good life. He claims that a person should possess a moderate quality of material comforts which are crucial for his/her well-being. Aristotle's perspective on success or honor is that it cannot be termed as the main good in describing a good life (Macaro 4). The reason he gives is that success is an aspect that depends on other people and the notions of fortune. Aristotle proves that success is not the main good since people do not just seek to be honored or recognized, but always strive to be recognized for a good reason. I cannot state that I am living a good life from my perspective on the issue is that money and success are the main good. I always strive to earn more money and become successful. Therefore, according to Aristotle, I am not living a good life based on the aspects of money and success.
Pleasure and the Balance of a Good Life
Pleasure is another measure of good life. Many people have the perspective that living a good life entails having bodily pleasures whenever possible. Aristotle rejects the idea that pleasure is the main good in living a good life. He does not discredit it completely but states that a little pleasure is a component of a good life since human beings are embodied creatures and have to appreciate nature. Aristotle cautions that excessive indulgence in pleasure is damaging and distracts pursuance of pertinent goals in life. The best description of a good life is one that consists of striking a balance between value and pleasure. He states that value of the activity should precede pleasure. Having good relationships, embracing virtues, and the ability to reason are described constituents of a good life. Aristotle claims that there is need to differentiate between relationships as the one based on mutual admiration is the best type to adopt (Macaro 5). Based on Aristotle's perspective on pleasure and relationships, I am not living a good life since I consider pleasure as the main good in life. In my life, I embrace virtues but I am yet to strike a balance between senses, emotions, and reason so that I can live a good life based on Aristotle's philosophy.
Work Cited
Macaro, Antonia. "Aristotle and the good life." Practical Philosophy 7.2 (2005): 4-6.
