What role does 'eudaimonia' play in Aristotelian virtue ethics?

In Aristotelian virtue ethics, 'eudaimonia' – often translated as 'flourishing,' 'living well,' or 'human flourishing' – is the ultimate goal of human life and the foundation of morality. It is not simply happiness in the sense of pleasure or feeling good, but rather a state of living a complete and fulfilling life according to reason and virtue. Eudaimonia is achieved through the consistent practice of virtues, which are character traits that lie between two extremes (vices) – a deficiency and an excess. For example, courage is a virtue that lies between the vices of cowardice (deficiency) and recklessness (excess). To achieve eudaimonia, one must cultivate these virtues throughout their life, making them a stable part of their character. Aristotle argued that humans have a unique capacity for rational thought, and living in accordance with reason is essential for achieving eudaimonia. This involves not only intellectual virtues (wisdom, understanding) but also moral virtues (courage, justice, temperance). Therefore, the role of eudaimonia is to provide the ultimate aim and guiding principle for ethical behavior. By striving to develop virtuous character traits and acting in accordance with reason, individuals can achieve eudaimonia and live a flourishing life. Ethical actions are those that contribute to eudaimonia, both for the individual and for the community as a whole.