โThe end of the master-art is always more desired than the ends of the subordinate arts.โโ
โ Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book I, Chapter 1
Simple Explanation:
Aristotle compares lifeโs goals to โarts (skills/pursuits). โSubordinate arts (e.g., cooking, carpentry) serve immediate needs, but the โmaster-art (living virtuously) is the ultimate aim that gives all other goals meaning.
Real-World Connection:
โ โBuilding a House โ
You โlearn carpentry (subordinate art) โ craft furniture (end: comfort) โ design a home (higher art) โ create a space for family bonding (master-art end: love/connection).
โก โRunning a Business โ
You โmaster accounting (subordinate art) โ track profits (end: wealth) โ grow a company (higher art) โ provide jobs and innovate (master-art end: societal contribution).
โข โThe Hidden Hierarchy โ
Even โsmallโ skills matter โ but true fulfillment comes when โsubordinate ends (money, comfort) fuel the โmaster end: eudaimonia (living wisely and justly).