Abstract:

One current debate in Aristotle scholarship concerns his distinction between [Special characters omitted.] and [Special characters omitted.] . Although Aristotle never systematically delineates this distinction, he seems to recognize the necessity of reconciling these central, yet opposing, ideas. On the one hand, [Special characters omitted.] is within our power to achieve regardless of circumstance; on the other, external goods frequently depend on chance. I believe that a plausible means of drawing this distinction is found in a seminal fashion in Aristotle's work. [Special characters omitted.] on this distinction, is entirely within the individual's control. [Special characters omitted.] on the other hand, is 'better' than [Special characters omitted.] for it includes external goods which allow for full expression of the individual's virtue. I show that making a substantive distinction between these terms is grounded in historical linguistic precedent, and in the specialized philosophical senses assigned by Aristotle and his successors. Finally, I outline some areas of contention which benefit from recognizing the distinction.