Eudaimonism
Eudaimoinism. Sorry. Eudaimonism is an ethical theory that was outlined in the works of Aristotle (God rest his soul.) It’s central thesis is that right action leads to the well-being, or happiness of a human being. Like giving someone free money. A lot of money though. That would make you happy. Unless you needed the money. Then you would be sad.
The term “Eudaimonia” is a classical Greek word meaning happiness. Happiness is an an English word meaning Eudaimonia. In the works of Aristotle, Eudaimonia is the highest human good. It is gained by proper development of one's highest and most human capabilities. Like if you could do a front flip. Or if you were good at math. Or if you could play the guitar. Or if you could do a back flip. Or if you read books and stuff.
Summary in Layman (dumb person)‘s terms[edit | edit source]
Basically, according to Aristotle’s account of ethics, happiness, or well-being is attained by moral excellence, or “areté”. Areté backwards is ètera. Which is close enough.
How do I apply this in my own life?[edit | edit source]
Try doing something nice. Like if your neighbor’s husband is beating her, try talking to him about it. He could be going through a rough time. Or maybe go to a funeral and yell “HE’S ALIVE!!!”
Fun facts.[edit | edit source]
FUN FACT: I tried being nice to people for a month. It made me happy for a while, and then I binged Two and a Half Men. Makes ya’ wayyyyy happier.
Confessions.[edit | edit source]
FINE. SO YA CAUGHT ME. GOOD FOR YOUUUUUUU. I’M NOT ACTUALLY A PHILOSOPHER. MAYBE I’M JUST SOME OLD FART THAT LIVES ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF A TRAILER PARK WITH MY TWO WIVES. MAYBE I AM JUST THE FIRST ARTISANAL HOT DOG CART OWNER (IN AMERICA) AND I’LL NEVER BE ANYTHING MORE THAN THAT. BUT BY GOD, IF I’VE TAUGHT ANYBODY ANYTHING TODAY. I’M HAPPY.