Happiness is a state of activity. Aristotle Quotes in English
Aristotle's quote, "Happiness is a state of activity," illustrates his belief that true happiness, or eudaimonia, is not merely an emotion we feel occasionally. Instead, it is a deeper, more lasting state that comes from living a life filled with purpose and action. Let's explore this idea in greater detail.
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Happiness as Eudaimonia: In Aristotle's thinking, happiness goes beyond short-lived feelings of joy or pleasure. It is best understood as eudaimonia, which translates to “flourishing” or “well-being.” This concept of happiness is about living a fulfilling life that has meaning and depth over a long period. It is not about temporary thrills but about a continual sense of satisfaction and purpose.
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Activity vs. Passivity: Aristotle stresses that happiness does not come to us by simply waiting for it to happen. Instead, it is a result of our actions. To attain happiness, a person must actively seek out good deeds, strive for personal growth, and practice moral and intellectual virtues. Happiness cannot be achieved through inaction; it requires effort and engagement with the world around us.
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Virtuous Activity: Aristotle asserts that happiness is closely connected to virtue, which includes traits like courage, wisdom, justice, and temperance. These virtues are not automatically part of who we are; they need to be developed through practice and dedication. Therefore, a happy life is one in which a person continually works on becoming better, both morally and intellectually.
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The Role of Reason: In Aristotle's eyes, human beings are rational creatures, and the highest form of activity involves the use of reason. This indicates that true happiness includes not only physical or material actions but also intellectual pursuits. Activities such as learning, thinking deeply, and reflecting on oneself are crucial to achieving a fulfilled life. Engaging our minds plays a significant role in reaching happiness.
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Sustainable Happiness: Aristotle’s understanding of happiness is centered on sustainability. Merely seeking pleasure or indulging in temporary delights does not lead to true happiness. Instead, lasting happiness is found in long-term efforts and commitments. This includes building strong relationships, contributing positively to society, and focusing on self-improvement over time.
In summary, when Aristotle states that "happiness is a state of activity," he emphasizes that happiness requires our active involvement. It is attained by leading a life guided by virtue, employing reason, and immersing oneself in meaningful activities. For Aristotle, happiness is not a fixed point but an ongoing journey of growth, shaped by the choices and actions we undertake throughout our lives.