Final answer:
Socrates believed that true happiness is found through living a life of virtue and moral integrity, where the soul remains uncorrupted by harmful actions. Pursuing wisdom and good character above physical pleasures leads to a state of well-being or eudaimonia.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Socrates, true happiness can only be found when individuals live virtuously, guided by wisdom and moral integrity. Socrates' philosophy suggests that happiness is not about physical pleasure or material wealth but about the health of the soul, an internal state of well-being that comes from living a life of virtue and reason. He argued that a corrupted soul leads to harm and unhappiness, implying that virtuous actions and ethical knowledge are fundamental for true fulfillment.
One's character, for Socrates, outweighs any physical suffering or death, considering corruption of the soul as the greatest harm. He believed that evil actions stem from ignorance rather than an inherent desire for wrongdoing. Thus, in striving to understand and pursue the good, individuals can achieve eudaimonia—a concept further developed by Aristotle as 'flourishing' and aligning closely with the idea of living a virtuous and fulfilled life.
In essence, Socrates' prescription for happiness involves deep self-reflection, learning, and growth in virtue, ensuring that the choices one makes are aligned with the ultimate good, truth, and beauty. This process, he implies, cultivates an honorable and uncorrupted character, which is the core of true happiness.