Aristotle’s Way: How to Live a Good Life

What does it mean to live a good life? Can virtue be learned—or is it something we’re born with? And why does Aristotle believe friendship is essential to human flourishing?

In this session, we’ll explore Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle’s influential work on character, happiness, and the art of living well. Reading the text is recommended but not required—we’ll begin with a short introduction, then open the floor for discussion around three key ideas:

1. Happiness as the Highest Good: Aristotle argues that the ultimate goal of life is eudaimonia—a deep form of happiness or flourishing. But is this the same as pleasure or success? What makes a life truly fulfilling?
2. Virtue and the “Golden Mean”: Virtue, for Aristotle, is a habit developed through practice—a balance between extremes. Is courage always a middle ground? Can virtue be taught? And what does this mean for our everyday choices?
3. Friendship and the Good Life: Far from a side topic, friendship is central to Aristotle’s ethics. What distinguishes deep friendship from companionship or convenience? And can we live well without it?

Whether you’re new to Aristotle or revisiting his ideas with fresh eyes, this meetup will offer space to reflect, challenge, and connect. Come with questions—or just curiosity!

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