Aristotle's Method in Ethics: Philosophy in Practice

This book challenges the dialectical orthodoxy in Aristotle's ethics and argues that he is seeking the first principles of a demonstrative ethical science, a science of human goodness. It develops a novel interpretation of Aristotle's conception of philosophy, highlighting its ambition to scientific knowledge and its flexible approach to philosophical inquiry. Part I demonstrates this approach in his ethical treatises, showing how it is compatible with ethical precision, practical aim, and phronēsis.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 287 pages
Publication date: 11 February 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This book delves into Aristotle's ethical methodology, exploring it within the broader context of his philosophical vision. Joseph Karbowski challenges the prevailing dialectical orthodoxy and presents a compelling argument that, in his ethical treatises, Aristotle aims to establish the foundational principles of a demonstrative ethical science, a pursuit of human goodness. By adapting a method described in the second book of his Posterior Analytics, Aristotle seeks to develop a scientifically informed and flexible approach to philosophical inquiry.

Part I of this volume presents a novel interpretation of Aristotle's conception of philosophy, emphasizing its aspiration to scientific knowledge (epistēmē) and its adaptable nature in philosophical inquiry. It sheds light on Aristotle's approach as one that embraces a broad range of methods and perspectives, allowing for a dynamic and comprehensive exploration of ethical questions.

Part II of the book showcases Aristotle's scientific and flexible approach to philosophy in his ethical treatises. It demonstrates how Aristotle harmonizes his remarks about ethical precision, the practical aim of ethics, and the specific orientation of phronēsis (practical wisdom). The book illustrates how these aspects of his philosophy coexist harmoniously, contributing to a rich and nuanced understanding of ethical principles and their application in everyday life.

Through this comprehensive examination, the book offers valuable insights into Aristotle's ethical methodology and its significance in the broader realm of philosophy. It challenges readers to reevaluate traditional interpretations and encourages a deeper exploration of Aristotle's ethical ideas, paving the way for a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of human goodness and ethical behavior.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 170 x 244 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108411455