According to Aristotle, certain concepts can regulate and guide one’s ethical decision-making. These concepts are based on the three ethical treaties that contribute significantly to the philosopher’s studies of ethics. In that way, the Nicomachean and Eudemian Ethics, as well as Magna Moralia make up the central elements of Aristotle’s wise decision-making.
The Nicomachean Ethics work emphasizes the role of achieving one main aim in the general process of decision-making. Moreover, one must not originally be faced with optimal choices and make perfect decisions; instead the process is naturally ambiguous and incompletely determined (Berryman, 2019). Aiming for a happy lifestyle with a stable social setting will allow one to make worthy and uncontroversial decisions.
Furthermore, Eudemian Ethics focuses on the moral and intellectual virtues that guide one throughout their life, including making important decisions. At the same time, such virtues can only be learned with life experience and as a result of socializing with other people. In that way, one can act ethically only if they acquire the necessary knowledge about the nature of ethics, which is only achievable at a certain age.
Ultimately, Magna Moralia is a set of ethical works that again explains the role of virtues and socially acceptable values, referring to their impact on politics. The text emphasizes the importance of knowledge and patience in making good decisions and avoiding unnecessary problems (Berryman, 2019). Consequently, the work prioritizes happiness and personal growth as the main elements of ethical decision-making.
Referring to the three elements of Aristotle’s studies, I can incorporate them into my own decision-making process by selecting one main goal to achieve and reflecting on its possible impact. Although the many years of experience may be an unattainable aspect at this point in my life, I could use other people’s advice to make valid points for future decisions. Finally, another key takeaway from the theories suggests not focusing on the possible mistakes and inaccuracies resulting from the process. Instead, I must consider the ultimate goal and the benefits of its successful outcomes.
Reference
Berryman, S. (2019). Aristotle on the sources of the ethical life. Oxford University Press.