Final answer:
Aristotle's concept of perfect friendships is based on mutual goodwill and virtue, not necessarily obedience. Confucius speaks of obedience in the context of social structure rather than friendship. Thus, obedience is not explicitly required for the type of deep, virtuous friendship described by Aristotle.
Step-by-step explanation:
Is obedience necessary for friendship? This question can be explored through philosophical perspectives, particularly examining Aristotle's ideas about perfect friendships and Confucius's views on ethics and social hierarchy. According to Aristotle, perfect friendships, unlike incidental ones, are based on goodness and the virtuous development of the individuals involved. He emphasizes that in these relationships, friends wish well for each other for their own sake, aligning with the belief that friendship fosters virtue and happiness. This does not necessarily require obedience but rather a mutual desire for the good of each other.
Confucius, on the other hand, discusses obedience in the context of social order and the relationship between rulers and their subjects, not directly with friendship. However, his belief that 'the grass must bend, when the wind blows across it' can be interpreted as an analogy for social relations, suggesting that there should be a harmonious order followed by the members of society.
In conclusion, while obedience may be necessary for certain social structures, as suggested by Confucius, Aristotle's concept of perfect friendship does not explicitly necessitate obedience but rather focuses on mutual goodwill and virtue as the foundation of a true friendship.