Pleasure

Pleasure is a tricky, subjective subject. It's motivating power is undeniable, and humanity naturally gravitates towards that which is pleasurable. It's benefit, however, is hotly debated. We find that for some, it drives their compassion and motivates them to do virtuous things, for they take pleasure in such things. For others, it drives them to do wrong, because they have become habituated to do such a thing. However, unlike other philosophers, Aristotle claims that pleasure itself is not inherently bad. .

Pleasure's goodness is subjective, of course. Taking pleasure not just in the correct things, but also the correct amount, is crucial. Excessive pleasure can lead to ruin, as we conjectured while reading The Republic. For example, taking pleasure in bettering oneself in sport is good, yet going to far will lead to injury and the lessening of your skill. Once again, we return to the central concept of the theme found in this book, and the mean in relation to pleasure (as well as the object or act which is giving the pleasure) is certainly a cornerstone in our search for virtue.

Finally, the medium of pleasure must be taken into consideration. Bodily and mental pleasure certainly need to be distinguished. Bodily pleasure is superficial; it is not necessarily bad, so long as it is not distracting, but it is not productive in terms of individual growth; intellectual pleasures, such as the pleasure of reading, however, must be considered in the highest form of pleasure, because it further allows one to judge what is virtuous and just.