Instrumental good

Definition

An instrumental good is something that is valued not for its own sake, but as a means to achieve something else that is considered good. This concept plays a crucial role in discussions about the nature of human well-being and the ultimate goals of life, particularly in understanding how actions and choices are directed towards achieving eudaimonia, or human flourishing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Instrumental goods are often contrasted with intrinsic goods, as they serve a functional role in achieving deeper, more meaningful objectives.
2. In the context of eudaimonia, many activities and choices can be seen as instrumental goods because they contribute to an individual's overall happiness and fulfillment.
3. Examples of instrumental goods include money, education, and health, which are typically pursued not for their own sake but for the benefits they provide in achieving a good life.
4. Aristotle's philosophy emphasizes the importance of understanding which goods are instrumental in guiding ethical decisions that lead to eudaimonia.
5. Recognizing the distinction between instrumental and intrinsic goods helps individuals prioritize their values and make choices that align with their ultimate goals.

Review Questions

• How do instrumental goods function within the framework of eudaimonia?
  • Instrumental goods function as tools that individuals use to achieve eudaimonia, or human flourishing. They are valued because they help facilitate experiences and outcomes that contribute to a fulfilling life. For instance, education is an instrumental good because it enhances knowledge and skills, enabling individuals to pursue their true potential and ultimately reach a state of well-being.
• Discuss the implications of confusing instrumental goods with intrinsic goods in ethical decision-making.
  • Confusing instrumental goods with intrinsic goods can lead to misguided priorities in ethical decision-making. If someone values money as an intrinsic good rather than recognizing it as an instrumental good meant to achieve broader objectives like security or happiness, they may pursue wealth at the expense of other aspects of life that contribute to genuine well-being. This misunderstanding can result in an unbalanced life focused on material accumulation instead of personal fulfillment.
• Evaluate how an understanding of instrumental goods can shape one's approach to achieving a meaningful life.
  • Understanding instrumental goods allows individuals to consciously choose actions and resources that align with their ultimate goals of happiness and fulfillment. By identifying which goods serve as effective means to achieving eudaimonia, people can prioritize their time and efforts more effectively. This evaluation encourages a reflective approach to life where one assesses whether their pursuits are genuinely contributing to their overall well-being or merely serving short-term interests.

Related terms

Eudaimonia: A Greek term often translated as 'flourishing' or 'well-being,' referring to the highest human good and the ultimate goal of human life.

Intrinsic good: An intrinsic good is something that is valued for its own sake, independent of any external outcomes or benefits it may bring.

Teleology: The study of purpose or design in natural phenomena, often relating to the idea that actions are directed towards specific ends or goals.