Final answer:
Aristotle maintains that happiness or eudaimonia, the ultimate good, is achieved through the cultivation of virtues, which are habits of character developed through rationality and consistent practice.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Aristotle, the specific goal or ultimate purpose (happiness) of a human being is eudaimonia, which can be translated as human flourishing or well-being. This is not merely a fleeting emotional state but a state of flourishing that is achieved through the cultivation of virtues. Virtues are understood as habits of character that enable individuals to choose the preferable action in any given situation.
Aristotle argues that human excellence or virtue is realized through the perfection of rationality, our unique function as human beings. Living virtuously means developing habits that align with reason, which through habituation allows for the practice and familiarity necessary to consistently choose virtuous actions in diverse circumstances, leading to a fulfilling life.