Love is indisputably a key part of the good life. In this session, we’ll consider exactly what role it plays. We’ll read Aristotle’s beautiful meditations on philia (friendship) and consider the three categories of friendship he supposes contribute to a good life. We’ll also consider objections to Aristotle’s view that the highest forms of friendship require virtue.
Key Concepts:
- Eros, philia, agapē
- Aristotle’s three types of friendship
Read This:
Aristotle on Friendship (Selections from Nicomachean Ethics VIII)
Pre-Class Questions
- In your own words, explain each of Aristotle’s three types of friendship, and give an example of each.
- Give at least two reasons why Aristotle would think that you, and most other college students, probably do not have any “perfect” friendships. Do you agree? Explain.
- Is there anything in today’s reading that you’re confused about? What questions do you have? What other, related topics would you like to discuss in class? Follow the links to respond on PollEverywhere, and/or upvote any classmates responses’ that you’d also like to see covered in class.
Content Reflection
Have a ~20-minute conversation with someone else about a mutual friend you both share. Each of you should identify at least three qualities you admire in your mutual friend, and should reflect on what your friendship with them has contributed to your life. Afterward, write a reflection on your main takeaways from the conversation, noting any significant points of agreement and any significant differences between you and your conversation partner. Your reflection should draw substantive connections to Aristotle’s theory of friendship.
