Aristotle's Golden Mean

Definition

Aristotle's Golden Mean is a philosophical concept that advocates for moderation and balance in moral behavior, suggesting that virtue lies between extremes of excess and deficiency. This idea emphasizes the importance of finding a middle ground in ethical decision-making, where individuals can act virtuously by avoiding both extremes in their choices and behaviors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aristotle proposed that every virtue is a mean between two vices, one of excess and one of deficiency.
2. The application of the Golden Mean requires practical wisdom, or 'phronesis', which helps individuals navigate their specific circumstances.
3. This concept is applicable not just to personal behavior but also to social and political ethics, promoting harmony in community relations.
4. Finding the mean is context-dependent; what is moderate in one situation may not be moderate in another, highlighting the need for careful judgment.
5. Aristotle's Golden Mean remains relevant today, influencing modern ethical discussions around balance and moderation in various aspects of life.

Review Questions

• How does Aristotle's Golden Mean relate to the concept of virtue ethics?
  • Aristotle's Golden Mean is a core component of virtue ethics, as it emphasizes the importance of character and moral virtue. In this framework, virtues are defined as balanced traits that exist between extremes. For instance, courage is a virtue that lies between recklessness (excess) and cowardice (deficiency). Therefore, understanding the Golden Mean helps clarify how virtues are cultivated through moderation in one's actions and decisions.
• Discuss how practical wisdom ('phronesis') is essential for applying Aristotle's Golden Mean in ethical decision-making.
  • Practical wisdom, or 'phronesis', is crucial when applying Aristotle's Golden Mean because it allows individuals to assess their specific circumstances and determine the right course of action. Unlike theoretical knowledge, phronesis involves making decisions based on experience and situational understanding. It helps individuals identify the mean appropriate for each unique context, ensuring that their choices reflect a balanced and virtuous approach.
• Evaluate the relevance of Aristotle's Golden Mean in contemporary ethical discussions about personal and societal behavior.
  • Aristotle's Golden Mean continues to be relevant today as it provides a framework for navigating ethical dilemmas in both personal and societal contexts. In a world where extreme positions often dominate discourse, the idea of seeking balance encourages individuals and communities to strive for moderation. This approach can foster constructive dialogue and promote more harmonious relationships by urging people to avoid polarizing extremes in their opinions and actions, ultimately leading to better decision-making.

Related terms

Virtue Ethics: An ethical theory that emphasizes the role of character and virtue in moral philosophy rather than rules or consequences.

Eudaimonia: A Greek word often translated as 'flourishing' or 'the good life', representing the ultimate goal of human existence in Aristotelian ethics.

Philosophical Realism: The belief that certain things exist independently of human thought, including ethical truths that can be discovered through reason.