Name
Prof
Course
Date
Title or Subject of Essay
In the Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle values friendship so highly that he argues friendship replaces justice. Friendship, he argues, is necessary for life, since no one would choose to live without friends (Aristotle, cite). Aristotle believes that there are three different kinds of friendship: the friendship of utility, of pleasure, and of virtue. The virtuous friendship is the highest form of friendship and one of the greatest attainments one can achieve. Aristotle argues that friendship must be highly valued because it is a complete virtue. Friendship is both honorable and virtuous. In addition, Aristotle described people who engage in the love of utility and the love of pleasure as people who set up relationships for their own personal gain.
Friendships of pleasure are based on joy in other people's company alone. People who make jokes or have the sense of humor are said to have this kind of friendship. …show more content…
For instance, Anna is being friendly to her neighbor because Anna’s neighbor takes care of her children when she is out. Also, when Anna’s neighbor is on vacation, Anna waters her neighbor’s flowers. Therefore, the two friends take care of each other in the case of one’s absences. Their friendship is useful to both parties.
Friendships of virtue are based on mutual respect and admiration, regardless of utility or pleasure. As long as these friends have similar values and goals, their relationship lasts because its main motive is to take care of each other. This kind of relationship takes longer than the other two kinds, since it involves the enjoyment of each other's character. When two people recognize that they have similar goals and values, their relationship will be based more around loving each other and wanting what is good for them. This is the best kind of friendship and what Aristotle calls true
Prof
Course
Date
Title or Subject of Essay
In the Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle values friendship so highly that he argues friendship replaces justice. Friendship, he argues, is necessary for life, since no one would choose to live without friends (Aristotle, cite). Aristotle believes that there are three different kinds of friendship: the friendship of utility, of pleasure, and of virtue. The virtuous friendship is the highest form of friendship and one of the greatest attainments one can achieve. Aristotle argues that friendship must be highly valued because it is a complete virtue. Friendship is both honorable and virtuous. In addition, Aristotle described people who engage in the love of utility and the love of pleasure as people who set up relationships for their own personal gain.
Friendships of pleasure are based on joy in other people's company alone. People who make jokes or have the sense of humor are said to have this kind of friendship. …show more content…
For instance, Anna is being friendly to her neighbor because Anna’s neighbor takes care of her children when she is out. Also, when Anna’s neighbor is on vacation, Anna waters her neighbor’s flowers. Therefore, the two friends take care of each other in the case of one’s absences. Their friendship is useful to both parties.
Friendships of virtue are based on mutual respect and admiration, regardless of utility or pleasure. As long as these friends have similar values and goals, their relationship lasts because its main motive is to take care of each other. This kind of relationship takes longer than the other two kinds, since it involves the enjoyment of each other's character. When two people recognize that they have similar goals and values, their relationship will be based more around loving each other and wanting what is good for them. This is the best kind of friendship and what Aristotle calls true