The document discusses psychological egoism, philosophical egoism, and Aristotle's view of the good life. Psychological egoism claims that selfishness is part of human nature due to evolution, while philosophical egoism argues one should cultivate self-interest. Aristotle believed happiness is humanity's sole purpose, achieved through education, experience with reason to understand virtue, and developing virtuous character through habit and action.
The document discusses psychological egoism, philosophical egoism, and Aristotle's view of the good life. Psychological egoism claims that selfishness is part of human nature due to evolution, while philosophical egoism argues one should cultivate self-interest. Aristotle believed happiness is humanity's sole purpose, achieved through education, experience with reason to understand virtue, and developing virtuous character through habit and action.
The document discusses psychological egoism, philosophical egoism, and Aristotle's view of the good life. Psychological egoism claims that selfishness is part of human nature due to evolution, while philosophical egoism argues one should cultivate self-interest. Aristotle believed happiness is humanity's sole purpose, achieved through education, experience with reason to understand virtue, and developing virtuous character through habit and action.
The document discusses psychological egoism, philosophical egoism, and Aristotle's view of the good life. Psychological egoism claims that selfishness is part of human nature due to evolution, while philosophical egoism argues one should cultivate self-interest. Aristotle believed happiness is humanity's sole purpose, achieved through education, experience with reason to understand virtue, and developing virtuous character through habit and action.
From evolutionary science, we see that we are selfish by nature – selfishness is a primary characteristic of our genetic heritage
Philosophical Egoism – Prescriptive
Even is there is more to our nature than selfishness, you ought to cultivate self-interest because egoism pays!
Is evolution all about survival of the fittest?
If so, what does this mean? - Social existence involves competition and cooperation which is more beneficial for the greatest good for the greatest number? Good Life – Aristotle argued that happiness is the sole end (telos) of humans 1. Education- proper upbringing 2. Experience with reason – allows one to understand Good behavior and its benefits 3. You exercise free will from sound, rational judgments and act well = habit and action KEY: Development of virtuous character Virtue is a mean between 2 extremes 1.) Excess 2.) Deficiency