THE ELEATIC STRANGER'S METHOD IN ARISTOTLE'S ETHICS

This article examines Aristotle's method for defining the concept of happiness in his Eudemian and Nicomachean ethics . In particular, draws attention to a methodological passage ( Eth. Eud. 1.6 1216b26–35), which he claims that ‘If we start from what is truly yet not clearly spoken, clarity will be won as make progress’. expression comes Plato's Statesman 275a 281d. Aristotle then seems adopt Eleatic stranger's two ways clarify initial imprecise statement greatest best human goods: first, distinguishes target object other similar objects, second, refers appearances illustrations more abstract ethical concepts. analysis illuminates influence later Platonic on new angle.