Final answer:
Eudaimonia is a state of flourishing associated with leading a virtuous life, a concept rooted in ancient Greek philosophy. G. E. M. Anscombe revived eudaimonism by challenging contemporary ethical theories and pushing for a revised understanding of human flourishing and virtues. It contrasts with hedonism, which values pleasure as the highest good, and ethical relativism, which suggests ethical values are context-dependent.
Step-by-step explanation:
Eudaimonia refers to a state of being often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing' which involves virtuous activity leading to a well-lived life. This concept originates from ancient Greek philosophy, particularly from the works of Aristotle. In his ethical writings, Aristotle contended that true happiness is found through leading a virtuous life rather than seeking pleasure or material wealth.
G. E. M. Anscombe, a British philosopher, revived interest in eudaimonism through her critical work of modern moral philosophy. In her 1958 article "Modern Moral Philosophy," she attacked the inadequacy of contemporary ethical theories that rely on a secular understanding of moral "oughts" without the foundation of a legislator, such as God. Anscombe pushed for a robust reexamination of human flourishing and virtues that was not predicated on outdated notions or a theistic framework, leading to more rigorous approaches in modern moral philosophy.
When considering eudaimonism today, it is often contrasted with hedonism and ethical relativism. Hedonism is an approach that values pleasure as the highest good and is typified by the pursuit of physical, emotional, and intellectual pleasures. Ethical relativism posits that ethical values are not universal but rather are relative to the cultural, individual, or societal context.