Single Idea 6705

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / F. Existentialism / 5. Existence-Essence]

Full Idea

It is the freedom to transcend our nature which eudaimonism seems to ignore and existentialism brings to the fore.

Clarification

'Eudaimonism' is Aristotle's aim of fulfilment through virtue

Gist of Idea

Existentialism may transcend our nature, unlike eudaimonism

Source

Gordon Graham (Eight Theories of Ethics [2004], Ch.9)

Book Reference

Graham,Gordon: 'Eight Theories of Ethics' [Routledge 2004], p.178


A Reaction

It is wildly exciting to 'transcend our nature', and very dreary to polish up the nature which is given to us. In this I am a bit conservative. We should not go against the grain, but we shouldn't assume current living is the correct line of the grain.