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Nichomachean Ethics


            One of the most fundamental questions that philosophical minds ponder is the extent to the purpose of human beings. The Greek philosopher Aristotle attempted to derive this contemplation by practical, almost mathematical means, despite its variables being ridden with anomalies. This however is true to all philosophical thought and is part of the very definition of philosophy itself. Eventually Aristotle arrives on a reasonably justifiable answer, still widely accepted today, as to the basic function of man; a single unifying theme as to the meaning of human existence: happiness. But what exactly is happiness and how does one achieve this fate? The answer revolves around compliance of pursuing virtuous behavior and subsequently "improving" one's soul. This act is manifest in the form of true "human good" and is the single vital component to virtuous behavior.
             Aristotle, to prove his theory relevant, proves this point from countless directions. The theory in its most basic form, nevertheless, was the result of a variant of the Socratic Method called practical syllogism. Starting off, Aristotle knows that for every action, there is a desired end result or reaction. Whatever this result may be, it always is some form of human good, although some desires are not universally accepted as being positively good. These actions consist of all conscious action and choices humans make in their lifetime. Aristotle then applies this to human existence in its entirety. The ultimate desire of humans is the state of happiness. Short-sighted or not, all human thought is thoroughly based on achieving this fate.
             This theory extends to all walks of life; for instance happiness is achieved in the animal kingdom through sustenance and survival (among other things). The human race is undeniably unique in circumstance as it possesses intellectual rationality and reason. These traits ascend our perception to a higher plain as we have developed a purpose other than mere survival.


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