Aristotelian thought and philosophy as a way of life

Abstract

The purpose of the manuscript is to discuss the relationship between Aristotelian thought and the understanding of philosophy as a way of life. Based on a bibliographic study, the text highlights the distinction that Aristotle makes between the happiness that can be found in political, or active, life and philosophical happiness, associated with "theoría" – the contemplative life dedicated to the intellect. The Philosopher argues that true happiness is achieved through excellence of character and intellect, and that the contemplative life is the closest to this perfection. However, Aristotle recognizes that practical life, with its ethical and political demands, is also essential for the common good. In Aristotle, philosophy as a way of life is an invitation to participate in the good life. An active participation, founded on the ideal of the search for the construction of a virtuous life from the development of moral excellence, through wisdom. But it is also, and above all, to seek within the limits of what is human to share the ideal of contemplative life, of the search for knowledge and wisdom. This intellectual virtue consists more in the search for than in the attainment of excellence itself, for this would be a quality fully developed only in God.