Nicomachean Ethics
Nicomachean Ethics (c. 350 BCE) by Aristotle is a foundational work of Western ethics, asking what the good life (eudaimonia) is and how virtuous character is formed.
Core Idea
Virtue is a hexis (settled disposition) cultivated through habit, and each virtue lies as a “golden mean” between extremes of excess and deficiency — courage between recklessness and cowardice. Human action aims at a telos (end/purpose), and the highest end is flourishing achieved through reason and practical wisdom (phronesis).
Why It Matters for Critical Thinking
Introduces phronesis — practical wisdom in judging particular situations — and the idea that good judgment is trained, not innate. The golden mean and telos remain durable lenses for evaluating goals and conduct.