This could consist of platonic pleasure or erotic pleasure. Because this, like Utilitarian Friendships, is based on superficial foundations, it does not stand the test of time. The final way to Friendship is through a true "goodness of character." Aristotle believed that all human beings have a capacity for goodness of character; yet it takes practice and effort to reach a respectable level of moral integrity. Friendships based on good character represent a friendship where nothing is needed by any party; the two remain friends simply because love the Friendship itself.
Another conceit made by Aristotle in his Nichomachean Ethics is the concept that Friendship and Justice are intertwined. According to this theory, any political leader must engage in a friendship with his or her larger external community. Any politician wants the power of his or her office, which is only gained through a successful friendship with the people resulting in his or her being elected into office. The community as a whole also desires certain objectives as a result of allowing the politician to enter into the friendship. A politician is also dependent on the flourishing friendships of the individuals within the larger community. If people are not getting what they want out of their various friendships, a dangerous situation of discontent could be brewing....
According to Aristotle, Justice is also an important tool in the implementation of the Virtues. Virtues, as representative of the means of life, that of moderation rather than either excess or complete lack there of, serve as important guidance tools to formulate laws and legislation. By sticking to what we know is right in terms of its moderation and moral value, we ensure that our laws aim to provide a balance within society which would then help provide a fruitful environment for those questing for Happiness. Justice then proves to be an important piece in the larger context of our search for the ultimate end.
Although Aristotle's reasoning is now thousands of years old, one can see through analyzing it that it still works in today's modern context. This based on the validity and fluidity of the construction of his arguments. They are practically understood when referenced to how we really interact and live. His idea of finding Happiness as the ultimate end does make sense when brought into any situation. Therefore, his extensive discussion of things such as Happiness, Pleasure, Friendship and Justice provide a model for each individual to in take use to find their own happiness -- "To this let us know proceed," (Aristotle, 199).
Works Cited
Aristotle. Nichomachean Ethics. Dover Publications. 1998.
