Question

True/False:

The Bible itself, especially its wisdom literature, repeatedly emphasizes the Aristotelian notion that the good life is the happy life, i.e., that moral virtue is a necessary condition and essential component of human happiness. For example, Psalm 1:1:2 states that true happiness can only be found in obedience to God's law: "Happy those who do not follow the counsel of the wicked, Nor go the way of the sinners, nor sit in company with scoffers. Rather, the law of the Lord is their joy; God's law they study day and night.

Answer 1

The Bible and Aristotle's philosophy both explore the connection between virtue and happiness. Biblical wisdom literature emphasizes happiness through obedience to God's law, while Aristotle aligns happiness with human flourishing and virtue. Both perspectives have influenced Western thought about the good life.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding Eudaimonia and Virtue

The Bible and Aristotelian philosophy both offer perspectives on the good and happy life, though they originate from different historical contexts. In the Bible, specifically the wisdom literature such as Psalms, happiness is associated with living in accordance with God's law. Psalm 1:1-2 and Psalms 19:7-8 exemplify this view, suggesting that true happiness is rooted in obedience to divine law and is a condition of spiritual and moral well-being rather than material success.

Aristotle's thought, as presented in Nicomachean Ethics, delineates a concept of happiness (eudaimonia) that is inextricably linked to virtue and the function of a human being. According to Aristotle, virtuous development is central to a flourishing life, which encompasses not just moral goodness, but also success, friendship, and other external goods. Aristotle posits that friendship, particularly those based on character, contributes significantly to our well-being and is a key component of human flourishing.

The question of how to live a good life has evolved over time, with different cultures and eras providing varied answers. The Greek philosophers transitioned from a reliance on gods to a focus on human virtue and happiness, influencing Western thought profoundly. The consolidation of classical philosophy into the worldview of Christianity, seen in figures like Boethius, reflects this enduring quest for understanding the notion of the good life.

In the prompt provided, option d. Aristotle argues that happiness is the ultimate good of human action and virtue is necessary for happiness, is the declarative statement that puts forward a position or claim regarding the relationship between virtue and happiness.