Philosophy Aristotle: The Nicomachean Ethics, v.1, 20 March 2008.

[Patricia]

Translated by W D Ross, Clarendon Press (Oxford) 1908.

Aristotle’s main work on ethics. What is the function of a human being? To live a life in accordance with the virtues. (Virtues are character traits that allow a person to flourish and lead a fulfilling life.) Virtues are not innate, but are acquired through practice and habituation. Many virtues exist on a mean between two vices: courage is a virtue. But an excess is rashness and a deficiency, cowardice.

Friendship is also discussed.

PS The severest penalties apply to anyone who spells the title as ‘Nichomachean.’ The work was either edited by, or dedicated to Aristotle’s son, Nicomachus.

This work is in the Canadian public domain OR the copyright holder has given specific permission for distribution. It may still be under copyright in some countries. If you live outside Canada, check your country's copyright laws. If the book is under copyright in your country, do not download or redistribute this work.

To report a copyright violation you can contact us here.