Conceptions of the Good in Plato and Aristotle

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Compare The Conceptions of the Good That We Find in Plato and Aristotle.
Plato and Aristotle are two of the most influential ancient Greek philosophers, offering distinct conceptions of the good. Understanding Plato's and Aristotle's ethical ideas requires knowing their notions of the good. This essay will contrast Plato's and Aristotle's conceptions of the good and look at the challenges in applying Plato's non-naturalist idea of the good to value judgments (Gonzalez 200). Finally, it will explore the similarities between moral virtue and physical health/fitness.
Plato's Conception of the Good
Plato's conception of the good is non-naturalist, which is not grounded in empirical observation. In Plato's philosophy, good is the only thing that matters, and all other things are subject to it. Good is a concept that cannot be understood naturally; it is an idea that can only be understood through reason. In Plato's view, the sound is the source of every other kind and the most excellent form of reality. The good is a concept or a principle that gives everything else its meaning and value; it is neither a thing nor a material.
Plato's theory of forms, in which he contends that the material world is merely a copy or reflection of the world of forms, is connected to his concept of the good. The Forms are abstract, perfect, timeless, and unchangeable. The tangible world only reflects them; they are the genuine truth. Because it provides all other forms their meaning and worth, the good is the most necessary form.
Difficulties in Applying Plato's Conception of the Good
Establishing what is good or terrible in particular circumstances might be difficult, so applying Plato's non-naturalist idea of the good to moral judgments is challenging. Moral judgments demand that the idea of sound be applied to frequently complicated and ambiguous circumstances. Plato addresses this issue in several ways. First, he contends that philosophical reflection, instead of direct observation of the world, is how one learns about the good, which implies that one must conclude the good via reason as it cannot be directly witnessed or felt. Plato highlights the value of education in gaining knowledge of the good in his second point. He contends that people can acquire the moral and intellectual qualities required to see the shape of the good through a thorough education. The lack of a clear framework for evaluating what is good or harmful in particular circumstances in Plato's idea has prompted criticism of his philosophy.
The Solution of Plato
Plato suggests that people can only make moral judgments if they know what is right. Plato asserts that individuals must try to learn about the good through philosophy and reflection. Those who study philosophy can obtain an understanding of the Forms' ultimate reality, which will improve the correctness of their moral judgments.
Aristotle's Conception of the Good
Since it is grounded on naturalism, Aristotle's understanding of the good differs from Plato's. According to Aristotle, the good is connected to human nature and is attained by realizing one's "telos," or potential. According to Aristotle, every hu...