On the place of friendship in moral life

Abstract:

Here, I examine the place of human friendship in moral life from the standpoint of Aristotle’s and Thomas Aquinas’ ethical conceptions. I focus especially on the question of friendship’s relationship to happiness as the ultimate goal. Friends are necessary for people, not only because of some desire or weakness, or just as an aid to better carry out the contemplative activity of which a happy life consists; but rather, as objects of contemplation in themselves. Through friends we can attain self-knowledge while at the same time taking pleasure in their existence and virtuous life.

Key words:

Friendship, happiness, contemplation, moral life