The Nicomachean Ethics

Name: The Nicomachean Ethics
Brand: Penguin Books Ltd
SKU: 9780140455472
Price: 26.0 NZD
Availability: InStock

By Aristotle

3.99

( 52,275 ratings, 1,833 reviews)

Summary

The Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle is a foundational text in Western philosophy, exploring the nature of ethical virtue and the path to a good life. Aristotle examines concepts of happiness, virtue, and the role of reason in human affairs, proposing that a fulfilled life is achieved through virtuous actions in accordance with reason.
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Format: Paperback / softback

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The Nicomachean Ethics

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you enjoy exploring ancient philosophical discussions on the nature of happiness, virtue, and the best way to live a fulfilling life. This classic work offers profound insights into ethical theory and human behaviour, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in philosophy.

The Nicomachean Ethics

Description

One of the most influential philosophical classics of all time, The Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle remains a cornerstone of Western ethical thought. Composed as a series of lectures given by Aristotle in ancient Greece, this seminal work delves deep into the nature of human goodness, exploring what it means to lead a virtuous life. The discourse ranges widely over core questions about character, pleasure, and the pursuit of happiness, providing profound insights into moral virtues, friendship, and the essence of a flourishing life.

In The Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle meticulously examines the concept of the highest human good, which he identifies as 'eudaimonia'—often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing'. He contends that a good life is one lived in accordance with virtue and rationality. Through a comprehensive discussion of ethical virtues such as courage, temperance, and justice, Aristotle elucidates how these qualities contribute to a balanced and fulfilling life.

The text also addresses the nature of pleasure and its role in human life, considering whether it is desirable for its own sake or as a byproduct of virtuous activities. Furthermore, Aristotle explores the challenge of self-control and the struggle between reason and desire, offering timeless advice on how to achieve moral virtue through practical wisdom, or 'phronesis'.

Significantly, Aristotle highlights the importance of relationships, dedicating sections of the work to friendship and love. He categorises friendships into three types—those based on utility, pleasure, and virtue—each playing a crucial role in one's life and social fabric. According to Aristotle, the highest form of friendship is one based on mutual respect and a shared commitment to moral excellence.

Adam Beresford's new translation of The Nicomachean Ethics brings this ancient philosophy to contemporary readers with a fresh perspective. Beresford's meticulously researched translation captures the essence of Aristotle's thought in clear and accessible English, preserving the original's unadorned style while making key terms and idiomatic expressions comprehensible to the modern reader.

Whether you are a student of philosophy, a novice exploring ethical theory, or a seasoned scholar, this lively translation of Aristotle's masterpiece offers a brilliant exposition of ethical principles that continue to resonate in today's world.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle is widely praised for its profound exploration of human morality and the pursuit of a good life. Critics appreciate Aristotle's systematic approach to ethical inquiry, particularly his focus on virtue and character. While some find the ancient text dense and challenging, many acknowledge its enduring relevance and insights into human behaviour and philosophy.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140455472

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 30 April 2020

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

Translated by Adam Beresford

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 23.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 365g

Pages: 528

Collections

All Books Aristotle Non-Fiction Philosophy & Psychology Philosophy & Stoicism

About the Author

Aristotle was born in the Macedonian city of Stagira in 384 BC, and died in 322. He studied in Plato's Academy in Athens and later became tutor to Alexander the Great, before establishing his own school in Athens, called the Lyceum. His writings, which were of extraordinary range, profoundly affected the whole course of ancient, medieval and modern philosophy. Many of them have survived, including The Nicomachean Ethics, The Politics and Poetics, among others. Adam Beresford is Associate Professor of Philosophy at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. He has previously translated Plato's Protagoras and Meno for Penguin Classics.