Final answer:
The notion of being of good involves acting with moral purpose and virtuous intent. Philosophical teachings emphasize achieving goodness through actions aligned with ethical principles and understanding human nature. This is reflected in ideas such as the Eightfold Path, Aristotle's character virtues, and Kantian ethics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of understanding what constitutes the good can be intricate, but it essentially revolves around knowing what is beneficial according to human nature. Someone might suggest that it is important to be of good, which could mean acting with moral purpose and fostering positive traits that contribute to oneself and to society. The good is not solely determined by the outcomes it effects but also the intention and will behind the actions. In many philosophical teachings, like the Eightfold Path and Kantian ethics, there is a strong emphasis on understanding and achieving the good through deliberate and thoughtful actions, influenced by moral character and principles.
In the Eightfold Path, living a good life implies that actions should promote dharma, which signifies moral virtue or righteousness. The importance of setting a good example and being conscientious in community affairs echoes this sentiment. When considering what constitutes good character, Aristotelian principles highlight that good speech or action will express good character if it emanates from a good moral purpose. Similarly, as Kant reflects, a good will is valuable not because of the end it achieves, but because of its intrinsic moral rectitude.
The advice 'Go before the people with your example and be laborious in their affairs' and the principle of universalizability suggest that being of good involves not only thinking but doing—setting an example that aligns with virtuous principles that could be applied universally.