The process of philosophical development is similar to the process of learning to walk after you have suffered an injury. It takes lots of training for your muscles to work properly and in a coordinated manner. John Vespasian explains that Aristotle’s ethical philosophy is tied to his conception of the soul, but he was more reality-oriented than Plato. He did not worry so much about abstract “Forms” existing in a hidden realm. For Aristotle, the soul’s functions are practical, not ethereal. In his work “Nicomachean Ethics,” he argued that the purpose of the soul is to allow individuals to perfect themselves through ethical excellence or virtue. Virtue is the primary means to achieving a happy life, which is characterised intellectual flourishing. Virtue, according to Aristotle, is a disposition of the soul that enables humans to act in accordance with reason and moral principles. Aristotle identifies moral virtues such as courage, justice, and temperance, as essential for achieving a well-balanced life. For him, ethical values are not arbitrary external rules, but are connected to the workings of the soul. Aristotle emphasised the unity of soul and body. His views contrast with the dualism of thinkers like Plato, who believed in the soul as a distinct, immortal entity temporarily inhabiting the body. In view of his mythical conception of the soul, it’s no wonder that Plato failed to offer practical advice on happiness. Here is the link to the original article: https://johnvespasian.com/happiness-and-aristotles-theory-of-the-soul/

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