Aristotelian themes in critical ethical naturalism.

The article focuses on critical ethical naturalism (CEN), an ethical theory developed by Tony Lawson, and elucidates its key features through the lens of Aristotle's ethics and politics. CEN emphasizes humans as inherently relational, community-oriented beings whose flourishing (eudaimonia) depends on the flourishing of others within their communities, aligning with Aristotle's view of humans as "political animals" whose good life is realized through social interrelatedness and character friendship. The theory holds that humans possess innate dispositions to care for others, but rational choice is required to endorse these tendencies as good, a point Aristotle's ethics helps clarify. Additionally, both Lawson and Aristotle recognize that certain social structures can inhibit human flourishing by undermining trust and care, with Aristotle's analysis of tyranny and organic social arrangements providing insight into the vulnerabilities and obstacles faced by communities. This comparative exploration highlights both convergences and differences between CEN and Aristotelian thought, offering a richer understanding of CEN's ethical and social ontology.