We are all social creatures whom by our nature surround ourselves with other human beings who we call our friends. We are constantly trying to broaden our own circle of friends. Aristotle understood the importance of friendship, books VIII and IX of the Nicomachean Ethics deal solely with friendship. A modern day definition of a friend can be defined as "one joined to another in intimacy and mutual benevolence independently of sexual or family love". (Oxford English Dictionary). Aristotle's view on friendship is much broader than this. His arguments are certainly not flawless. In this essay I will outline what Aristotle said about friendship in the Nichomachaen Ethics and highlight possible flaws in his arguments. .
Friendship for Aristotle (and Greeks in general), as mentioned earlier, is much broader than the definition given in the O.E.D. Aristotle regards less intimate bonds as friendships as well as the intimate relationship in the modern definition. Relationships between husband and wife, father and son, neighbors, business partners, team members, members of a political party, teacher and student, would all be viewed as friendships in Aristotle's eyes (Russell McNeil). However, he does distinguish between different types of friendship. Friendships for Aristotle can be divided into three main categories: 1. Friendships of Utility 2. Friendships of Pleasure 3. Friendships of Virtue. .
Friendships of utility are based on people who are useful to each other. This is the only reason for their friendship. An example of a friendship of utility might be the relationship between a car salesman and a potential client, or buyer (John L. Fjellstad). The car salesman needs the client because he has to make a living, and the buyer needs the salesman because he needs a car. Both have something the other wants and needs. These friendships do not last long. Once the client is no longer useful to the salesman, or visa versa, the friendship ceases.