In This First Question, We Are Considering Sections 1 And 2

In This First Question We Are Considering Sections 1 And 2 Of Book I

In this first question, we are considering sections 1 and 2 of Book I of Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics. Aristotle discusses actions that are pursued because they allow us to do certain things or produce certain things. In those actions, the thing that we produce is better than the action that produced it. For example, we make bridles, so that we can ride horses. But, there are some actions that are good in and of themselves. Then, that which we produce is self-sufficient; it is the good. This activity is a "master science." What does Aristotle think is the master science, the "most authoritative art," and why?

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Aristotle, in his seminal work the Nicomachean Ethics, examines the nature of human actions and the pursuit of the good life. Particularly in Book I, Sections 1 and 2, he explores the concept of actions aimed at producing goods, distinguishing those that serve instrumental purposes from those that are intrinsically valuable. Central to his inquiry is identifying the "master science"—the most authoritative art or science that governs human life and guides the attainment of ultimate good. Aristotle’s conception of this science has profound implications for understanding his ethical philosophy, especially regarding the nature of happiness (eudaimonia) and the good for human beings.

In Sections 1 and 2, Aristotle articulates that many actions are performed for the sake of producing something better than the act itself—for example, constructing bridges to facilitate trade or crafting tools to improve life quality. These actions are instrumental, aimed at producing external objects or benefits that are considered good in themselves. However, Aristotle emphasizes that among all activities, some are pursued for their own sake and are intrinsically valuable. Such actions are self-sufficient and complete, exemplified by activities that constitute “the good in itself.” This leads him to consider sciences and arts that are pursued for their own sake as the highest form of human activity—these are callings that fulfill the human capacity for reasoning and contemplation.

Aristotle asserts that the science involving the highest form of activity, which is contemplative and self-sufficient, is the "most authoritative art." He reasons that the ultimate human good must be an activity that is noble and complete, not merely instrumental, and that this activity must correspond to the human function or purpose. For Aristotle, this activity is philosophic contemplation (theoria), which involves the use of reason—the unique characteristic that sets humans apart from other beings. The activity of contemplative reasoning is pursued for its own sake, providing ongoing fulfillment and embodying the essence of human excellence.

Regarding the options provided in the question, Aristotle explicitly advocates for political science as the master science, but not for the reasons that focus solely on utility or legislation alone. He recognizes that politics utilizes other sciences—such as economics, ethics, and military science—to regulate the good life within a community. Ultimately, Aristotle's view is that political science is the master because it comprehensively considers human well-being, legislates the norms and principles of a good life, and aims at the collective good of all citizens. It integrates various sciences to establish laws and institutions that promote human flourishing in accordance with virtue.

Therefore, the most fitting choice among the options given is: "Political science because it uses the rest of the sciences; it legislates what we are to do and what we are to refrain from doing and its very end is the good for human beings." This reflects Aristotle’s position that political science is supreme as it encompasses the knowledge necessary to organize life and social institutions aimed at achieving the highest good—human happiness and virtue.

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