Living well

Definition

Living well refers to achieving a state of eudaimonia, which is often translated as 'flourishing' or 'the good life.' This concept emphasizes not just the pursuit of pleasure or material success, but the fulfillment of one's human potential through virtuous actions and meaningful relationships. Living well is closely linked to the human function argument, which suggests that a fulfilling life aligns with performing one's unique human function, namely, rational activity in accordance with virtue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Living well encompasses not only personal happiness but also ethical behavior and contributing positively to society.
2. The idea of living well implies the development of virtues such as courage, temperance, and wisdom, which are essential for achieving eudaimonia.
3. According to the human function argument, rational activity is what distinguishes humans from other animals, and thus fulfilling this function is key to living well.
4. Living well involves both individual and communal aspects; it requires nurturing relationships that support mutual flourishing.
5. Aristotle argued that living well is a lifelong pursuit and cannot be achieved through transient pleasures alone.

Review Questions

• How does living well relate to the concept of eudaimonia in Greek philosophy?
  • Living well is intrinsically tied to eudaimonia, as both concepts focus on achieving a fulfilled and meaningful life. Eudaimonia represents the highest good for humans, emphasizing flourishing through virtuous actions. Therefore, living well is not merely about temporary pleasures but involves developing virtues that contribute to overall happiness and fulfillment.
• Discuss how the human function argument supports the idea of living well as a rational activity.
  • The human function argument posits that humans have a specific purpose rooted in rationality, making rational activity central to living well. By engaging in reasoning and moral decision-making aligned with virtues, individuals can fulfill their unique role in society. This connection illustrates that living well is achieved through activities that are distinctively human and contribute to both personal growth and communal harmony.
• Evaluate the implications of living well for ethical decision-making and personal relationships.
  • Living well has profound implications for ethical decision-making, as it calls for individuals to act with integrity and develop virtues that enhance both personal character and social bonds. In personal relationships, living well promotes mutual respect and support, fostering environments where individuals can flourish together. Evaluating decisions based on how they contribute to a fulfilling life helps individuals align their actions with broader ethical principles that prioritize the well-being of themselves and others.

Related terms

Eudaimonia: A Greek word commonly translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' representing the highest good in life and the ultimate aim of human existence.

Virtue Ethics: An ethical theory that emphasizes the role of character and virtue in moral philosophy, rather than rules or consequences.

Human Function Argument: A philosophical argument that posits the purpose of human life is to engage in activities that fulfill one's nature as a rational being, thereby leading to eudaimonia.