Aristotle (384-322 BC) believed that ethics have a clear, definite purpose. He defined ethics as the science of achieving eudaimonia, which means “a happy, thriving, flourishing life.” John Vespasian explains that Aristotle argued that human beings can only achieve happiness by living a life of virtue. Unfortunately, in some cases, he wrongly identified virtue with the “golden mean,” a middle-of-the-road attitude between two evils. In general terms, Aristotle’s ethics promote the virtues of courage, temperance, and justice. Aristotle’s taught that, only by cultivating those virtues, we can achieve harmony and joy in a sustained manner. Aristotle presented his views on ethics primarily in two of his works. They carry the titles “Nicomachean Ethics” and “Eudemian Ethics.” Aristotle’s ethical theory is often referred to as virtue ethics because it focuses on behaviour patterns. It all revolves around having good habits and not deviating from them, especially in periods of crisis. If you stick to your good habits, they’ll lead you to success and happiness. Aristotle taught that the cultivation of a virtuous character is the path to eudaimonia. The path is defined by good habits that you need to practise every day. Otherwise, it does not work. Here is the link to the original article: https://johnvespasian.com/aristotles-views-on-ethics-virtue-and-happiness/

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