Pat Boyle

October 10, 2006

Junior Faith 06

George’s Failed Quest for Happiness

            As a fan of Seinfeld, I was excited to read this article about George.  The article immediately states that George is the epitome of the word “failure.”  While this seems like a very opinionated statement, it is backed up with Aristotelian evidence.  Using Aristotle’s quotes, the article explains how George is one of “the many,” which encompasses everyday people and society.  He represents all of the faulty traits of society, and as the article states he “provides a perfect example of how not to live one’s life.” The more perceptive and competent people are labeled by Aristotle as “the wise.”  The author states that George could never be part of this group simply because he looks for all the wrong things in life. 

            The article continues, giving dialogue from “The Opposite.”  In this episode, George decides that he will do the exact opposite of what his instincts tell him.  This new method provides George with good fortune and happiness throughout the episode, and this gives evidence to the fact that George is hopeless.  The article gives Aristotle’s definition of the “good life,” which he says is activity in accordance with virtue.  George does not have any of the characteristics of Aristotle’s definition of virtue, thus George cannot be living a good life.  The article gives many quotes to show where George recognizes his unhappiness or vices, yet still he continues to do nothing about it.  The author explains that George believes that his life is a matter of fortune, and that his actions and outlook can minimally impact his life.  This is of course, a false belief, because Aristotle gives three methods on how we can be more virtuous.  The author states that none of these methods are practiced by George, and therefore we should not believe there is any hope for George to find happiness.