What is Aristotle’s general conception of prudence, as he describes it in Book VI, Chapters 1-7 ofNicomachean Ethics? How does deliberation and goal-directed action relate to prudence? What is the end to which prudence aims (i.e. what is its goal)? Contrast Aristotle’s general conception of prudence with his general conception of wisdom. Page 86-92
ANSWER
**Aristotle’s General Conception of Prudence**
Prudence (phronesis) is an intellectual virtue that enables us to make good decisions about how to live our lives. It is the ability to deliberate well about what to do and to act in accordance with the best course of action.
Prudence is closely related to goal-directed action. Deliberation is the process of thinking about what to do in order to achieve a particular goal. Prudence involves the ability to deliberate well, which means being able to consider all of the relevant factors and to choose the best course of action.
**The End to Which Prudence Aims**
The end to which prudence aims is eudaimonia, or human flourishing. Eudaimonia is a complex concept, but it can be understood as the state of living a good and fulfilling life. Prudence is necessary for eudaimonia because it helps us to make choices that are conducive to a good life.
**Prudence and Wisdom**
Aristotle distinguishes between prudence and wisdom (sophia). Wisdom is a broader intellectual virtue that encompasses knowledge of all things, including the good and the bad. Prudence, on the other hand, is more narrowly focused on practical knowledge, or knowledge of how to live a good life.
Another way to contrast prudence and wisdom is to say that prudence is concerned with the particular, while wisdom is concerned with the universal. Prudence is about making good decisions in specific situations, while wisdom is about understanding the general principles that govern good living.
**Deliberation and Goal-Directed Action in Relation to Prudence**
Deliberation and goal-directed action are essential components of prudence. Deliberation is the process of thinking about what to do in order to achieve a particular goal. Goal-directed action is the process of carrying out those decisions.
Prudence involves the ability to deliberate well and to act in accordance with the best course of action. This means being able to consider all of the relevant factors, to weigh the pros and cons of different options, and to choose the course of action that is most likely to lead to the desired outcome.
**Example of Prudence**
An example of prudence might be a doctor who is deciding how to treat a patient. The doctor would need to consider all of the relevant factors, such as the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and other treatment options. The doctor would also need to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the course of action that is most likely to lead to a good outcome for the patient.
**Conclusion**
Prudence is an essential intellectual virtue for living a good life. It enables us to make good decisions about how to achieve our goals and to live in accordance with our values. Prudence is closely related to deliberation and goal-directed action, and it aims at the end of eudaimonia, or human flourishing.