Aristotle on Trading, Gifts , Exchange and Friendships (Nic. Eth. bk 9) – Philosophy Core Concepts

This video focuses on Aristotle’s work, the Nicomachean Ethics, and examines his discussion in book 9 of a key issue involved in friendships and other relationships: the exchanges of gifts, favors, and other good things between those involved in the relationship.

Aristotle does not consider it unnatural or immoral for there to be expectations of some sort of give and take, or reciprocity between those involved in a friendship. How do we determine what is enough, or too much, or too little in these sorts of cases? He provides some guidelines and criteria for determining this issue.

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