A amizade como condição para a eudaimonía na perspectiva aristotélica

Abstract

This thesis investigates the relationship between the self-sufficiency (autarkeia) of eudaimonia (happiness) and the necessity of friendship (philia) in Aristotle's philosophy, as presented in the Nicomachean Ethics. The central question is: why does a happy person need friends? It is argued that friendship is a necessary condition for eudaimonia, making it impossible to achieve without the bonds provided by philia. The research explores the connection between happiness and virtuous activity (arete), encompassing ethical and dianoetic virtues. It also examines the tension between the idealized self-sufficiency of eudaimonia and the dependence on human relationships. It is argued that this tension does not constitute a contradiction, but reveals the essentially relational nature of the happy life in Aristotle. The investigation also addresses the relationship between the political life (bios politikos) and the contemplative life (bios theoretikos), demonstrating that contemplation, although considered the apex of human fulfillment, requires a suitable social context. It is concluded that Aristotelian autarkeia presupposes relational autonomy, achieved through friendship, which allows for human flourishing in its totality, thus offering a new perspective on Aristotelian ethics that demonstrates the centrality of friendship for the happy life.