Aristotle's Ethics

by J.O. Urmson

Aristotle's ethical writings are among the world's greatest, but are easily misunderstood by the inexperienced. Professor Urmson, after 50 years of study, provides a clear account of the main doctrines in an easily intelligible way and without dwelling on matters of mainly scholarly interest.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction

139 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 1988

Reviews

[Jasmine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maybe our politicians should read Aristotle's The Nicomachean Ethics rather than Machiavelli's The Prince?

"If we understand more about the nature of excellence of character, of legitimate excuses, of wisdom theoretical and practical, of the nature of weakness of will, all to the good, but this understanding is not something to be prized simply for its own sake; it is knowledge which should help the legislator to frame better laws that will better lead and compel men towards a good life." (p. 126)

[Francesca · Rating 2 out of 5]

Io non vi sopporto.

[Stas Medvedev · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good introduction into Aristotle's ethics, primarily Nicomachean Ethics. The author is quite opinionated at times. Nevertheless, that's a good read as James O. Urmston is a great expert.
One of the most exciting parts is his explanation of the Doctrine of the Mean, which is different from many you will find elsewhere.
Throughout the book he suggests his own translation of some key terms which actually helps to better grasp the meaning of those concepts.

[Anders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting views of the basic human experience, 2400 years ago. Very modern, also. Can it be modern because it was a building block for our current western world?

[Steve Dineen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great introduction