Intrinsic good

Definition

An intrinsic good is something that is valued for its own sake, rather than for the benefits it brings or its utility in achieving something else. This concept often ties into discussions about what constitutes a good life and what it means to achieve true happiness, emphasizing that certain experiences or states of being hold value independently of external factors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intrinsic goods are contrasted with instrumental goods, which are valued for the benefits they provide in achieving something else.
2. In Aristotelian philosophy, eudaimonia is often seen as the ultimate intrinsic good, achieved through living virtuously and fulfilling one’s potential.
3. Philosophers argue that understanding what constitutes an intrinsic good helps to clarify ethical theories and moral reasoning.
4. The pursuit of intrinsic goods can lead to a more fulfilling life, as they align with deeper human values and desires.
5. Debates about intrinsic goods often center around different views on what should be considered inherently valuable in life, such as relationships, knowledge, or personal fulfillment.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of intrinsic good enhance our understanding of eudaimonia in Aristotelian ethics?
  • The concept of intrinsic good is crucial for understanding eudaimonia because it illustrates that true happiness is not merely about pleasure or material gain but is tied to virtuous living and the development of one's character. Aristotle believed that eudaimonia is achieved through fulfilling one's potential and engaging in activities that are intrinsically valuable. Thus, recognizing intrinsic goods helps clarify what it means to live well and pursue a life that aligns with deeper human values.
• Discuss the implications of distinguishing between intrinsic and instrumental goods in ethical decision-making.
  • Distinguishing between intrinsic and instrumental goods has significant implications for ethical decision-making because it influences how individuals evaluate their actions and the outcomes they seek. When individuals recognize intrinsic goods as having inherent value, they may prioritize actions that promote well-being and virtue over those that yield short-term benefits or successes. This distinction encourages a more reflective approach to ethics, where the focus shifts from mere consequences to the underlying values that guide choices.
• Evaluate the criticisms surrounding the notion of intrinsic goods and their relevance in contemporary moral philosophy.
  • Critics of the notion of intrinsic goods argue that this concept can be overly subjective and culturally specific, making it challenging to establish a universal understanding of what is inherently valuable. In contemporary moral philosophy, this debate invites diverse perspectives on human values and ethical frameworks. As societies evolve, what some consider an intrinsic good may change, leading to discussions about relativism and the need for broader consensus on moral values. Engaging with these criticisms pushes philosophers to refine their theories and consider how intrinsic goods operate within various cultural contexts.

Related terms

Eudaimonia: Eudaimonia is a Greek term often translated as 'flourishing' or 'well-being,' which is considered the highest good in Aristotelian ethics, representing a state of living in accordance with virtue.

Virtue Ethics: Virtue ethics is a philosophical approach that emphasizes the role of character and virtue in moral philosophy, asserting that the development of good character traits leads to intrinsic goods.

Teleology: Teleology is the philosophical study of purpose or design in natural phenomena, which can relate to the intrinsic good by discussing how certain actions or outcomes have inherent value based on their purpose.