Final answer:
The concept of the good life spans philosophical discussions that include pleasure, desire, and objective goods contributing to well-being. It's built on intrinsic goods such as health, virtue, and deep personal relationships, and is subjective, varying from person to person but rooted in universally accepted principles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The philosophical question of what constitutes the good life has been a subject of contemplation since ancient times. The good life can be defined through various lenses such as pleasure, desire, and objective goods. Well-being is central to the concept of the good life, focusing on what is intrinsically good for a person's flourishing. Philosophical pluralists argue for multiple intrinsic goods like satisfying desires, achieving aims, personal development, and fostering deep relationships. Conversely, monism suggests a single intrinsic good, which can be constraining. In considering a good life, well-being converges on intrinsic goods like life, health, emotional attachment, reasoning, and morality.
In practice, a good life might look like actions aligned with one's values, leading to personal and communal wellbeing. It encompasses more than material possessions, often revolving around how one treats others and the legacy of one's actions. Philosophers also highlight the importance of knowledge, virtue, and friendship in a life that is considered well-lived. Martha Nussbaum, for example, provides a list of intrinsic goods that contribute to a person's development and happiness. As such, the good life is also about making wise choices that align with personal values and contribute to the betterment of oneself and society.
Ultimately, the good life is subjective and varies per individual, but it is rooted in universally understood concepts such as health, well-being, and ethical living. It requires balancing personal desires with societal responsibilities, and individual freedom with communal harmony. The ideals surrounding the good life may be indeterminate and varied, but they serve as a guide for ethical decision-making and personal fulfillment.