Final answer:
Aristotle believed that all natural things strive towards a goal or telos, and for humans, this goal is eudaimonia, which is akin to happiness or flourishing that is achieved through the cultivation of virtues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Aristotle, one of the central figures in Western philosophy, did indeed hold the view that every natural thing has a telos or goal toward which it strives, and that the telos of human beings is happiness. This concept is a cornerstone of Aristotle's ethical theory. He posited that the highest goal or good for humans is eudaimonia, often translated as flourishing or well-being, rather than merely a transient state of pleasure. Aristotle further explained that achieving eudaimonia involves cultivating virtues, which are habits of character that help us to decide what action is preferable in a particular moment. Thus, when framed in the context of Aristotle's philosophy, the pursuit of a flourishing life through the cultivation of virtue is indistinguishable from the pursuit of happiness.