Kitap 1
4
Again, our definition accords with the description of the happy man as one who lives well or does well; for it has virtually identified happiness with a form of good life or doing well.Cf. 4.2 note.
5
And moreover all the various characteristics that are looked for in happiness are found to belong to the Good as we define it.
6
Some people think happiness is goodness or virtue, others prudence, others a form of wisdom; others again say it is all of these things, or one of them, in combination with pleasure, or accompanied by pleasure as an indispensable adjunct; another school include external prosperity as a concomitant factor.
7
Some of these views have been held by many people and from ancient times, others by a few distinguished men, and neither class is likely to be altogether mistaken; the probability is that their beliefs are at least partly, or indeed mainly, correct.
8
Now with those who pronounce happiness to be virtue, or some particular virtue, our definition is in agreement; for activity in conformity with virtue involves virtue.
