Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics book 6 | Wisdom (Sophia) | Philosophy Core Concepts

This video focuses on Aristotle's work, the Nicomachean Ethics, and examines his discussion of the intellectual virtue of wisdom (sophia).

According to Aristotle, wisdom is a composite or integration of two other intellectual virtues - nous (intelligence, intellect), which supplies a grasp of the first principles; and episteme (science, knowledge), which reasons using those first principles to provide a coherent body of knowledge.

He also maintains that wisdom in this sense is distinct from and superior to practical wisdom (phronesis) - the former has to do with higher things, matters that do not chance or whose principles do not change, while the latter bears upon the human world of contingent affairs and actions.

[Marshmallowsmom]

This is so helpful! I feel a lot more confident now.

[MrMarktrumble]

akribos=exact. Yes, I remember him saying that at the beginning. I imagine that wisdom is not distinct from prudence. Current wisdom research actually gives primacy to phroneiss rather than episteme ( the Berlin school and the University of Chicago).Darn, you are quoting back to me what I quoted to you a few videos ago ( thales, the stars, the well and the Thracian maid) Suddenly I want to go read more Anselm. "the North star is my staff and rudder..."

[ElasticGiraffe]

Really enjoy these videos. If I'm not mistaken, Aristotle reserved episteme to one's own rationally derived "scientific" knowledge. Mere acquaintance with an established body of scientific knowledge doesn't qualify, but would fall under doxa (opinion, or knowledge on the basis of authority).

[MrMarktrumble]

Well, I want the habit of sophia, but wonder if eternal verities actually exist. I Certainly have the desire to have the habit of Sophia, but the execution and the and practice could be much much better. Work and wealth is a means to the habit of Sophia. All I want for Christmas is the habit of Sophia. Thank you.