Single Idea 5756

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / C. The Good / 2. Happiness / a. Nature of happiness]

Full Idea

Happiness is a good which once obtained leaves nothing more to be desired.

Gist of Idea

Happiness is a good which once obtained leaves nothing more to be desired

Source

Boethius (The Consolations of Philosophy [c.520], III.I)

Book Reference

Boethius: 'The Consolations of Philosophy', ed/tr. Watts,V.E. [Penguin 1969], p.79


A Reaction

This sounds like the ancient 'eudaimonism' of Socrates and Aristotle, which might not be entirely compatible with orthodox Christianity. It is not true, though, that happy people lack ambition. To be happy, an unfilfilled aim may be needed.