Friendship

Definition

Friendship, according to Aristotle, is a mutual bond between individuals characterized by affection, shared values, and goodwill. It is essential to human life, serving as a source of happiness and virtue, and can take different forms based on the nature of the relationship, such as friendships of utility, pleasure, and virtue. This concept laid the groundwork for later Hellenistic schools that built on Aristotle's ideas about ethics and human connection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aristotle identifies three types of friendship: those based on utility, pleasure, and virtue, with the latter being the highest form.
2. Friendships of virtue are considered the most enduring and meaningful, as they involve a deep mutual respect and a shared commitment to the good.
3. According to Aristotle, true friendship is rare because it requires both individuals to be virtuous and committed to each other's well-being.
4. The influence of Aristotle's ideas on friendship significantly shaped later Hellenistic philosophical schools, which incorporated his views into their ethical frameworks.
5. Aristotle argued that friendship is not only important for personal happiness but is also essential for a well-functioning society.

Review Questions

• How does Aristotle categorize different types of friendship, and why is this categorization important for understanding his ethical philosophy?
  • Aristotle categorizes friendship into three main types: friendships of utility, pleasure, and virtue. Friendships of utility arise from mutual benefit; friendships of pleasure are based on enjoyment and companionship; while friendships of virtue are grounded in mutual respect and shared values. This categorization is crucial for understanding Aristotle's ethical philosophy because it highlights how different forms of relationships contribute to an individual's pursuit of eudaimonia or flourishing, emphasizing that the highest form of friendship fosters moral growth and community.
• Discuss the role of virtue in Aristotle's concept of friendship and how it influences the nature of relationships.
  • Virtue plays a central role in Aristotle's concept of friendship, particularly in friendships based on virtue. In such relationships, individuals are drawn together by a shared commitment to the good and an appreciation for each other's character. This creates a bond that transcends mere utility or pleasure. Virtuous friendships are marked by deeper trust and loyalty, promoting personal growth for both individuals involved. The emphasis on virtue reflects Aristotle's belief that true fulfillment comes from relationships that encourage ethical living.
• Evaluate the impact of Aristotle's views on friendship in shaping later Hellenistic schools of thought regarding ethics and human connections.
  • Aristotle's views on friendship significantly influenced later Hellenistic schools like Stoicism and Epicureanism, which incorporated his ideas into their discussions on ethics and interpersonal relationships. These schools recognized the importance of social bonds for achieving eudaimonia, but they also adapted Aristotle's concepts in unique ways. For instance, Stoics emphasized self-sufficiency while still valuing friendships for moral support. By integrating Aristotle's insights into their frameworks, these schools further developed the understanding of how relationships impact individual virtue and happiness in various contexts.

Related terms

Virtue: A trait or quality deemed to be morally good and valued as a foundation for good moral being.

Eudaimonia: A Greek term often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' representing the highest good in Aristotelian ethics, achieved through virtuous living.

Philia: A Greek word that refers to the affectionate regard or friendship between equals, emphasizing mutual respect and loyalty.