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Single Idea 98

[from 'Nicomachean Ethics' by Aristotle, in 22. Metaethics / C. The Good / 3. Pleasure / c. Value of pleasure ]

Full Idea

It is reasonable that people should be eager for pleasure; because it perfects life for each individual, and life is a thing to choose.

Gist of Idea

It is right to pursue pleasure, because it enhances life, and life is a thing to choose

Source

Aristotle (Nicomachean Ethics [c.334 BCE], 1175a15)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Ethics (Nicomachean)', ed/tr. ThomsonJ A K/TredennickH [Penguin 1976], p.322


A Reaction

It is so nice to hear that pleasure is a good thing. Compare Socrates in 'Gorgias', who tries to prove that pleasure is not at all what we want. Life with no pleasure is not much of a thing.