Excess

Definition

Excess refers to an overabundance or a degree of something that surpasses what is considered normal or desirable. In the context of emotions and desires, it highlights the danger of going beyond moderation, which Aristotle sees as detrimental to achieving a balanced and virtuous life. Understanding excess helps in recognizing the importance of finding a balanced approach to emotions and desires, as well as the overall pursuit of human flourishing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Aristotle's view, excess is one of the key pitfalls in the emotional spectrum, leading to vices such as anger, envy, and greed.
2. Finding the right balance, or mean, is crucial for achieving personal happiness and fulfilling one's potential.
3. Excess can manifest not only in feelings but also in actions, where too much engagement can lead to burnout or harm relationships.
4. Aristotle emphasizes that understanding and managing excess is essential for achieving eudaimonia, which involves thriving rather than just surviving.
5. The concept of excess is closely linked to moral character; cultivating virtues helps counteract tendencies toward excess.

Review Questions

• How does Aristotle's understanding of excess relate to his theory of emotions and desires?
  • Aristotle posits that excess represents an imbalance in emotions and desires, leading to negative outcomes. He argues that when individuals experience emotions such as anger or envy in excessive amounts, they deviate from virtuous behavior. This deviation can result in destructive actions that hinder one's ability to achieve a balanced life. Thus, managing excess is crucial for emotional health and moral integrity.
• Discuss how the Doctrine of the Mean addresses the issue of excess and its implications for moral behavior.
  • The Doctrine of the Mean articulates that virtue exists between two extremes: deficiency and excess. This principle highlights that engaging in any emotion or action excessively leads to vice rather than virtue. By striving for moderation, individuals can cultivate moral character and lead more fulfilling lives. Therefore, this doctrine serves as a guide for navigating emotional responses and decision-making without falling into excess.
• Evaluate how the concept of excess affects the pursuit of eudaimonia in Aristotle's philosophy.
  • Excess plays a pivotal role in the pursuit of eudaimonia by presenting obstacles that individuals must navigate to achieve true flourishing. Aristotle argues that pursuing excessive pleasure or desires detracts from one's ability to cultivate virtues necessary for a fulfilled life. Thus, managing excess becomes essential; it allows individuals to focus on meaningful pursuits, develop strong moral character, and ultimately reach their highest potential in life.

Related terms

Virtue: A quality deemed morally good and desirable in a person, representing a mean between deficiency and excess.

Eudaimonia:

A Greek word often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' referring to the highest good for humans and the ultimate goal of life.

Doctrine of the Mean:

Aristotle's ethical framework suggesting that virtue lies between two extremes: deficiency and excess.