Final answer:
Aristotle's conception of virtue is central to achieving eudaimonia or flourishing. Virtues are character habits that guide us to the preferable action in given situations and are obtained through practice and habituation. Virtue is also seen as the golden mean between two extremes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Aristotle's Account of Human Virtue
Aristotle's ethics focuses on achieving happiness, which he defines as eudaimonia or flourishing. This is the ultimate purpose of human beings. Aristotle posits that we reach eudaimonia by cultivating virtues, habits of character, through the exercise of rationality which is the unique function of humans. Virtues help us decide the preferable action in any given situation, guiding us towards a fulfilling life.
In Aristotle's view, virtues are obtained through habituation. Moral virtues arise from consistently practicing the right actions. These practices form dispositions or tendencies within our character, allowing us to make the right choices in diverse scenarios. The virtuous person understands the rationale behind their actions and chooses them deliberately from a firm character.
Aristotle also describes virtue as a mean between two extremes of deficiency and excess, with the golden mean being the virtuous state. Bravery, for instance, is a virtue that lies between the extremes of cowardice and rashness. Hence, virtue in Aristotle's philosophy is a moderation that contributes to well-being and flourishing.