Aristotle v. Plato

The term “the good life” is used by both Aristotle and Plato to describe both an internal as well as an external state of living for a given individual or segment of the population (the state). While the two philosophers have some similarities in their definitions, they differ a great deal when it comes to their explanation of how to live in accordance with “the good life”. These similarities and differences can be examined by exploring the philosophy and thought that each of the two men taught. Also, one must take into account the time period in which each philosopher lived when comparing their thoughts and ideas. In the following I will attempt to sort out, in my own view, each man’s ideas on “the good life” and how it may be achieved.

Aristotle went to Athens early in his life and studied under Plato (who shared many Socratic views), but after Plato died Aristotle left Athens only to return some years later and found the Lyceum. Here he taught his ideas of logic and realist views, from which we get his idea of “the good life” or “eudaimonia”. Aristotle differed greatly from his teacher’s view of how life should be in that he believed people should work toward a livable community rather than Plato’s ideal community. T

. . .

View the whole essay, without interruption

He also believed that friendship was not something to be sought after, but something that could be accepted when it came around, provided there were no ulterior motives driving others to become your friends. The equilibrium that Seneca seeks to achieve is, in Aristotle’s view, different for each individual.

Achieving “the good life” was viewed by both philosophers as being a life-long task with several aspects to keep in mind. Seneca viewed death as an undeniable fact of live, and humans are to “rehearse” death and prepare for it throughout their life. This is all evidence of a fairly simple life, yet one that requires much thought and discipline to lead fully. “The good life” for Seneca and other stoics consisted in having just the basic necessities for survival which nature required. He is also known as the “father of logic” due in some part to the use of reason in his teachings, and this use of reason was in order to “know” goodness.

This brings us to Seneca and his idea of “the good life” which in today’s world would be considered grossly undernourished. 37), which to him was only having ordinary attire and tastes, nothing too “dowdy” yet nothing too “gaudy” either. 115), he does believe that there is a point at which one can have too much. His “good life” didn’t have the harmony and balance that Aristotle’s eudaimonia encapsulated. The idea of areté combined with autarkeia (self-sufficiency) is absolutely necessary in achieving Aristotle’s idea of eudaimonia. Aside from this, Aristotle’s “good life” was one that could be achieved relatively easily by continually reflecting on one’s own ideas and cravings. He feels very strongly about the idea of self-sufficiency and trend of people (households and individuals) providing for the state and the state providing for the people.

Approximate Word count = 1329
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)

Simply subscribe to view this paper, and 100,000 others.