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Writer's pictureLuke Girke

The Aristotelian Path to Self-Realisation

In ethical philosophy, Aristotle's Virtue Ethics is a beacon guiding individuals towards pursuing excellence and moral character. Rooted in the idea of eudaimonia, or human flourishing, Aristotle's ethical framework emphasises cultivating virtues to achieve a fulfilling and meaningful life. However, in the contemporary context, the application of Aristotelian ethics extends beyond personal morality to encompass professional and business ethics, offering a holistic approach to ethical decision-making. By intertwining Aristotelian Virtue Ethics with the pursuit of self-realisation and self-actualisation, individuals can embark on a transformative journey, metamorphosing into the embodiment of virtuous conduct within their professional and personal spheres.


At the heart of Aristotelian Virtue Ethics lies the concept of virtues as habitual dispositions towards moral excellence. According to Aristotle, virtues are not innate but cultivated through practice and habituation. In his seminal work "Nicomachean Ethics," Aristotle identifies virtues as means between extremes, advocating for moderation and balance in behaviour. For instance, courage lies between recklessness and cowardice, while generosity finds its balance between extravagance and stinginess.


Moreover, Aristotle emphasises the importance of phronesis, or practical wisdom, in moral decision-making. Phronesis enables individuals to discern the virtuous course of action in specific circumstances, considering the context and consequences of their choices. Individuals can strive towards eudaimonia by cultivating virtues and practical wisdom, realising their full potential and leading a flourishing life.


In professional and business ethics, the principles of Aristotelian Virtue Ethics offer valuable insights into fostering ethical conduct within organisations. Rather than relying solely on rules and regulations, companies can cultivate a culture of virtue, wherein employees are encouraged to embody virtues such as integrity, honesty, and fairness in their professional endeavours.


By aligning organisational values with virtuous behaviour, businesses can promote trust, loyalty, and sustainability. Leaders play a crucial role in modelling virtuous conduct and fostering an ethical climate conducive to individual and collective flourishing. Through ethical leadership and the cultivation of virtues, organisations can enhance their reputation, attract top talent, and contribute positively to society.


The journey towards self-realisation and self-actualisation parallels Aristotle's conception of eudaimonia, wherein individuals strive to actualise their inherent potential and lead a life of fulfilment. By embracing Aristotelian Virtue Ethics, individuals can embark on a transformative path, transcending mere compliance with societal norms to embodying virtuous excellence in all aspects of life.


Central to this journey is the concept of "becoming the thing" by adopting the behaviours and characteristics of a virtuous person. Individuals can cultivate virtues such as courage, temperance, wisdom, and justice through self-reflection, introspection, and deliberate practice. As they internalise these virtues, individuals undergo a process of metamorphosis, transforming into the embodiment of virtuous conduct.


Furthermore, pursuing self-realisation and self-actualisation entails aligning one's actions with their core values and aspirations. By living authentically and ethically, individuals can experience a profound sense of fulfilment and purpose, transcending material success to achieve a more profound sense of meaning and well-being.


Aristotelian Virtue Ethics provides a timeless framework for ethical living, guiding individuals to pursue excellence and moral character. By integrating virtue into professional and business ethics, organisations can foster a culture of integrity, thereby contributing to individual and collective flourishing. Moreover, the path to self-realisation and self-actualisation entails embracing virtue as the cornerstone of ethical conduct, leading to a transformative journey of personal growth and fulfilment. As Aristotle aptly stated, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit." Individuals can strive towards excellence by cultivating virtues and realise their full potential as moral agents in a complex and interconnected world.


Building upon the Aristotelian framework of Virtue Ethics and its integration into professional conduct, the journey towards self-realisation extends beyond cultivating virtues to encompass goal setting, life planning, and personal development. In this extension, we delve deeper into emulation - adopting the characteristics and traits of successful individuals within a specific field or industry. Emulation serves as a tool for success and carries a moral obligation, as individuals inadvertently become role models whose behaviours are likely to be replicated by others.


At the heart of personal development lies goal setting and life planning. Setting clear, achievable goals gives individuals direction, motivation, and a sense of purpose. However, choosing goals and aspirations is crucial, as they reflect one's values, priorities, and vision for the future.


Embracing emulation in goal setting involves identifying successful individuals within a specific field or industry and examining the characteristics contributing to their success. By studying their habits, mindset, and strategies, individuals can gain valuable insights into the pathways to achievement. Moreover, setting goals that align with the traits of successful role models increases the likelihood of success and fulfilment.


As individuals progress towards self-realisation, they inevitably become role models for others - consciously or unconsciously. In adopting the characteristics and traits of successful professionals, individuals inadvertently set a standard for ethical conduct and excellence. This places a moral obligation upon them to lead by example and uphold the values and virtues they seek to emulate.


Moreover, the phenomenon of "monkey see, monkey do" underscores individuals' powerful influence on their peers, colleagues, and society. By embodying virtuous behaviour and striving for excellence, individuals elevate themselves and inspire and empower others to follow suit. Thus, emulation becomes a tool for personal success and a means of contributing positively to the collective well-being.


In embracing emulation as a tool for success and a moral imperative, individuals contribute to cultivating a culture of excellence within their communities and organisations. As they lead by example and demonstrate the virtues they seek to emulate, they inspire others to strive for greatness and uphold ethical standards.


Furthermore, the ripple effect of ethical emulation extends beyond individual success to encompass societal progress and transformation. By fostering a community of virtuous individuals who support and encourage each other, individuals contribute to creating a more ethical, compassionate, and flourishing society.


Integrating emulation into goal setting, life planning, and personal development underscores its significance as a tool for success and a moral imperative. By identifying successful role models and adopting their characteristics and traits, individuals increase their likelihood of achievement and assume a responsibility to lead with integrity and excellence. As they strive towards self-realisation, individuals contribute to cultivating a culture of emulation, fostering collective progress and well-being. Thus, embracing emulation becomes a pathway to personal success and a catalyst for positive change in the world.



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