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Northern Illinois University Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle First Exegetical Paper
First Exegetical Paper
Reconstruct Aristotle’s argument that the highest good for human beings (happiness) is a life lived in accordance with reason and virtue.
In your paper, be sure to include the following concepts (and define them)
the highest good
happiness
complete
self-sufficient
the function of the human being
The focus of this paper will be Book I of Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics (especially Chapters 1, 2, and 7). Your task is to reconstruct Aristotle’s argument in the clearest terms as possible. Think of it as providing support for why Aristotle believes that happiness involves a life lived in accordance with reason and virtue. It might be helpful to think about how you would explain this argument to a friend who has never read Aristotle (do not assume your friend knows any basic concepts of this text, i.e. do not assume they are your instructor).
Format: This short paper should be between 500 and 750 words, written in 12-point Times New Roman and double-spaced.
Even though the paper is short, it must have: an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
The introductory paragraph should include your thesis statement, which can begin with “In this
paper, I will show that X argues Y, because Z.” You must include at least two citations from the text.
