Ethics Case

Compare/Contrast the major ideas of this week's readings:

The major ideas communicated in this week's readings center around the meanings of just, unjust and happiness through the writings/teachings of Plato and Aristotle.

Plato indicated that people are either just or unjust, meaning that they are either good or bad. The goodness of an individual is dictated by the amount of time, effort and understanding a person puts into perfecting an activity, job, or responsibility. Unfortunately, based on Plato's teachings, not everyone is just. Based on Plato's teachings, just individuals acted in a virtuous manner in order to obtain their achievements. This means putting others before themselves. Unfortunately, those who are unjust take advantage of these virtuous individuals/acts to better themselves.

Aristotle's teachings and writings center around the happiness of an individual; and how it can be obtained. Aristotle indicated that a life of happiness could be obtained by committing oneself to a life of virtue, and the acts of goodness completed as a result. Because obtaining true happiness is a commitment and process, not every person can obtain happiness. Because living a virtuous life is a constant battle, it is difficult for some to stay dedicated and focused. These individuals find it challenging to see what they have to offer the world, and what others around them have to offer.

Best thing I got out of this week:

I think the best thing I got out of this week is how these readings/teachings, despite how long ago they were written, can be translated to today's world. I think that can be clearly seen in Aristotle's teachings of happiness and living a virtuous life. In this day and age, when time is money, the happiest people seem to be those who are dedicating themselves to helping others. The nurses, fireman, police officers, and teachers appear to be living a more fulfilling, and happier life, than those working in corporate America. Making a difference in someone else's life in a positive manner will always go a lot farther, and provide someone with more self worth, than the almighty dollar.

Process of the class:

The process of this class is intriguing because each and every person has a varying perspective and