This paper argues that Aristotle's high-minded personality would not make a good friend, and examines the works of Aristotle.

Essay by seanrussLCollege, UndergraduateA, April 2002

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In this paper, I will argue that Aristotle's high-minded person will not make a good friend. By identifying that a high-minded person will not befriend an inferior one, there is no dispute that Aristotle would not make a good friend.

Friends are mirror images of themselves. They will reflect back what is good as well as what is not good about each other. This is why the high-minded Aristotle would not make a good friend to most people. High-minded people are the best at what they do. In philosophy, Socrates is high-minded in that no one really compares to his philosophical ability. No individuals can compare themselves to Aristotle, as he is far superior intellectually and philosophically. This leaves Aristotle to be a bad friend because he is superior to anyone wanting to create a friendship with him. "Persons much inferior to them in station do not expect to be friends with kings, nor do insignificant people expect to be friends with the best and wisest men"(228).

Just as an average person would not expect to befriend someone superior, the high-minded Aristotle would not befriend an average person. By being so superior, Aristotle would be mirror his image to a friend, and reflect back how inferior the friend is in comparison to Aristotle. This would not develop into a long lasting relationship, as both sides of the friendship would eventually become unhappy with the other. Aristotle would see his friend as being unintelligent and become tired of his ignorance. The friend would feel stupid in comparison to the high-minded Aristotle and so would not be able to tolerate the relationship. Examples of this are found in everyday life. People segregate themselves in accordance with many things including intelligence. In school, kids who are smarter than others tend to bond with...