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Action Quote by Aristotle

“What is the highest of all goods achievable by action? ...both the general run of man and people of superior refinement say that it is happiness ...but with regard to what happiness is they differ.” quote by Aristotle
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“What is the highest of all goods achievable by action? ...both the general run of man and people of superior refinement say that it is happiness ...but with regard to what happiness is they differ.”

Aristotle

About This Quote

Source Book: Nicomachean Ethics, 4th century BC

Happiness is the ultimate good pursued through virtuous actions, though its exact nature is debated.

In simple terms: Happiness is the highest good achieved by virtuous action.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate virtue to attain lasting happiness.

Themes

virtue happiness ethics human flourishing

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • public policy
  • education
  • leadership

Key Concepts

eudaimonia telos practical wisdom

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions reflect your deepest values?
  • How do you define happiness for yourself?
A Different Perspective

Happiness may be subjective and hard to measure objectively.

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