Discussion:
1. Living Well
Aristotle says that the virtues are necessary for humans to attain happiness, but he means this in terms of something we might call "flourishing" or "living well", which he considers quite different than simply feeling good. Thus, according to Aristotle some people might feel that they are happy, but because they lack the virtues they are not truly flourishing. However, imagine someone that is deceitful, selfish, greedy, self-indulgent, and yet enjoys great pleasure and appears to be quite happy. Is someone like this "flourishing" or not? Explain your answer this by referring to this readings and media, and if possible provide examples from real life and/or from literature, film, TV, etc.
2. Everyday virtues
Describe an area in your own life that you believe requires certain virtues in order to do well. This might be an occupation, an activity or hobby, a role you play (mother, friend, husband, mentor, etc.), and so on. Explain what this is, and what the "telos" of this kind of thing is; in other words, what is the purpose of this area of life, and would it mean to flourish and do well in it? Are there things people pursue in this area that are not part of the true telos? Finally, what are the virtues that one must have in order to flourish and do well in this area of life? What are some vices that get in the way? Your answers to these questions should include evidence from this readings and media.