Happiness is relative. Aristotle defines
happiness as a set of virtues that humans obtain through experiences throughout
their lifetime. I agree that people that are happy do have similar virtues
(i.e. generosity, patience, kindness, bravery) but that does not directly
correlate with happy people, just because one has similar virtues does not mean
that person is happy.
Aristotle believes that honor does
not equal happiness. Some people enjoy making others happy thus making them
happy. This is a form of happiness whether the giver is a warrior, nurse, or
someone in a relationship. One can be happy doing the work of/for others if that’s
all they know/ care about. Happiness is relative.
Aristotle believes that wealth
does not equal happiness. While this is somewhat true, happiness is achieved easier
if the path is paved in gold. Wealth makes life all around easier, one can
focus on more important things because one does not have to worry about paying
bills or work, which takes up time which could be well spent toward better endeavors.
Money may not be directly related to happiness but it can lead to financial security
and this leads to less worry which equals less stress which in turns helps lead
to overall happiness. Happiness is relative.
Aristotle argues that pleasure
cannot be happiness because animals actively seek out pleasure as well. I
disagree because humans seek pleasure to be happy, no one seeks pleasure to be
unhappy. Pleasures are a short term happiness. The most animalistic part of us
seek sexual relations as a short term pleasure, scientifically proven: a
chemical dump of endorphins are released within the body that bind to the opiate
receptor sites in your brain and naturally relieve pain, lower stress, and
boost confidence. It is true pleasure is a selfish animalistic trait only used
to satisfy some hunger, like eating for the taster or running for the high
(also massive release of Beta-endorphins, dopamine, serotonin). Happiness is
relative.
I will leave you with a thought
provoking quote that all life and happiness for that matter is different.
“Perception is reality” – Lee Atwater
Giovanti,
ReplyDeleteI agree with the way you say pleasure is a type of temporary happiness because even though Aristotle points out pleasure is animalistic, I believe that without being able to satisfy ourselves through our pleasures than happiness would be seen a lot less among us. We all respond to things in life differently based on how we've been conditioned to act, so happiness is relative to our actions as well as to our beliefs. People will see happiness in the way they see fit, regardless if its relative or not.
LaTericka H