Ethical living

Definition

Ethical living is a lifestyle that emphasizes making choices that align with moral principles and values, promoting well-being for oneself and others. This concept is deeply connected to how individuals engage with their relationships, decisions, and the impact of their actions on both personal happiness and the greater community.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epicureanism holds that ethical living is essential for achieving ataraxia, which is the ultimate goal of a pleasurable life.
2. Friendship is considered a crucial component of ethical living in Epicureanism, as it fosters mutual support, trust, and shared happiness.
3. Ethical living involves making informed choices that prioritize personal well-being while considering the impact on others and the environment.
4. Epicureans believe that the pursuit of pleasure should be balanced with the avoidance of pain, leading to a thoughtful approach to ethical decision-making.
5. In this philosophy, ethical living promotes the idea that happiness is not just an individual pursuit but is deeply interconnected with community and relationships.

Review Questions

• How does ethical living relate to the concept of friendship in Epicureanism?
  • Ethical living in Epicureanism underscores the importance of friendship as a fundamental aspect of achieving happiness. Friendships provide emotional support, shared experiences, and mutual understanding, which are vital for a fulfilling life. This philosophy teaches that cultivating meaningful relationships not only enhances individual pleasure but also promotes a sense of community, making ethical living intrinsically linked to how we interact with others.
• In what ways does the pursuit of ataraxia shape the understanding of ethical living within Epicurean thought?
  • The pursuit of ataraxia, or emotional tranquility, shapes ethical living by guiding individuals toward choices that promote peace and contentment. Epicureans believe that ethical decisions should lead to a reduction of pain and anxiety while maximizing pleasure. This understanding pushes followers to carefully evaluate their actions and interactions, fostering an environment where they can achieve ataraxia through balanced living and supportive relationships.
• Evaluate the implications of ethical living on community relationships according to Epicurean principles.
  • Ethical living according to Epicurean principles has profound implications for community relationships. It posits that happiness arises not only from individual pursuits but significantly from the quality of one's connections with others. By promoting values such as trust, generosity, and mutual respect within friendships, individuals contribute to a supportive community environment. This interconnectedness ultimately enhances collective well-being and reinforces the idea that ethical living creates a harmonious society where everyone's happiness matters.

Related terms

Eudaimonia: A central concept in ancient Greek philosophy, often translated as 'flourishing' or 'the good life,' which encompasses living in accordance with virtue and achieving personal fulfillment.

Ataraxia: A state of serene calmness and emotional tranquility, often sought after in Epicureanism as a goal of ethical living that leads to true happiness.

Virtue Ethics: An ethical theory that emphasizes the role of character and virtue in moral philosophy, suggesting that ethical living is achieved through the development of good character traits.