Page:Ferrier Works vol 2 1888 LECTURES IN GREEK PHILOSOPHY.pdf/436

Rh that the two definitions must bear a close resemblance to each other, and that their perfection consists in their differing from each other but slightly; for, observe, if man's proper work be a certain kind of life or mode of action, then his proper happiness must consist in doing that work welt His vocation is a particular kind of life; his happiness, therefore, is his living that kind of life in the best way possible. For example, if it is the proper business of a tree to put forth blossoms and to produce fruits, then we might say it will be that the happiness of the tree would consist in doing this abundantly and well. So that Aristotle, having defined man's proper work as consisting in a particular kind of life, is strictly logical in his procedure when he defines his happiness as consisting in living that life well. The two definitions stated in their simplest forms will stand thus: first, in regard to man's work, man's proper work is living reasonably; second, in regard to man's happiness, man's happiness is his living reasonably, in the best and noblest manner, and in the midst of favourable external conditions.

20. These definitions, which may appear to be little better than truisms, and which look rather clumsy in any English translation that can be made of them, will lead us immediately into an inquiry of greater interest and importance. But first let us note the elements which are involved in Aristotle's definition of happiness. First, it is mental, and not