The Function Argument in Aristotle's Ethics: Happiness and the Human Good [Hardcover]

Jakub Jirsa provides the first book-length study of the function argument, outlining its central importance for Aristotle's ethics and his understanding of happiness and living well.

The Function Argument in Aristotle's Ethicsgives a systematic account of the development of the function argument from Plato'sRepublicto theNicomachean Ethics, with an explication of the interdependence between different versions of the argument which appear in Aristotle's ethical writings. In careful close readings of Aristotle'sProptrepticus, theEudemian Ethicsand theNicomachean Ethics, Jirsa makes the case that the function (ergon) argument  that the function of human beings is virtuous activity of the rational part of the soul  serves as a transition from formal to substantial ethical debate and helps to differentiate between happiness and the happy life. The book then evaluates Aristotle's function argument against contemporary critiques.

With English translations of sections of theProptrepticusbased on the recent reconstruction from ancient sources and fragments, this volume offers a novel context for understanding a key element of Aristotle's ethical works, and is an ideal reference for those studying Aristotelian ethics, virtue ethics and the history of philosophy.

The first book-length study of the function argument, which plays a central role in Aristotle's ethics, with critical commentary outlining its importance for Aristotle's understanding of happiness and living well.Jakub Jirsais Associate Professor in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at Charles University, Czech Republic.

This is the first book-length treatment of the so-calledergonargument that makes part of the classical philosophers' attempt to ground ethics in human nature. As such the argument has attracted the attention of contemporary philosophers, especially the founders of virtue etl#)