When engaging with classical texts like Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, students often find themselves at a crossroads between their personal convictions and the intellectual demands of academic analysis. A common concern arises when students wonder whether it is appropriate to incorporate their own beliefs—especially those rooted in religious or cultural traditions—into their written responses. This is particularly relevant when grappling with foundational questions about the good life, virtue, and moral character, such as those found in Book 1, Chapter 4, where Aristotle explores the diversity of opinions on what constitutes the highest good.
The short answer is yes—you can and should bring your own thoughts and beliefs into your essays, but with a clear understanding of how and why you are doing so. The key lies not in avoiding personal perspectives, but in using them thoughtfully and critically within the framework of philosophical inquiry.
One of the most frequent concerns among students is whether expressing personal views—such as a Catholic Christian perspective on the good—might undermine the objectivity or academic value of their work. The truth is, academic writing, especially in philosophy, does not demand the erasure of personal identity. Instead, it calls for reflection and dialogue. When you write about Aristotle’s discussion of the ethical good, you are not merely summarizing his ideas; you are engaging with them. That engagement becomes richer when it includes your own experiences, values, and beliefs—provided they are presented as part of a critical conversation, not as definitive answers.
For instance, in Book 1, Chapter 4, Aristotle acknowledges that people disagree about the nature of the good—some say it is pleasure, others honor, others virtue. Rather than treating this as a problem to be solved, he sees it as an invitation to examine the reasons behind these differing views. This is where your own beliefs can play a constructive role. If you are a Catholic Christian, you might reflect on how your tradition understands the good as rooted in divine purpose, human flourishing through grace, and the cultivation of virtues like charity and humility. You can then ask: How does this view compare with Aristotle’s? Where do they converge? Where do they diverge?
This kind of reflection does not weaken your argument—it strengthens it. It shows that you are not passively accepting Aristotle’s views, but actively wrestling with them in light of your own worldview. The goal is not to prove your belief right or Aristotle wrong, but to demonstrate intellectual honesty and depth.
Some students worry that introducing religious or cultural beliefs might be seen as “cheating” the philosophical process—especially in subjects where neutrality is expected. However, philosophy has always been a space for diverse voices. Aristotle himself wrote within a specific cultural and historical context, and his ideas were shaped by the assumptions of ancient Greece. Modern readers, including those from Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, or secular backgrounds, bring equally valid perspectives to the table.
When you write about the ethical good, you are not required to adopt Aristotle’s conclusions uncritically. You are invited to assess them. If your Catholic faith leads you to believe that the highest good is union with God, you can explore how this aligns with or challenges Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia (flourishing or well-being). You might argue that while Aristotle emphasizes human excellence through reason and habit, your tradition adds a transcendent dimension—where the good is not only achieved through action but also received through divine grace.
This kind of comparative reflection is not only acceptable—it is encouraged in higher-level academic writing. It demonstrates critical thinking, historical awareness, and the ability to situate your own beliefs within a broader intellectual tradition.
The same principle applies beyond philosophy. Whether you're writing an essay in history, literature, or ethics, your personal beliefs can serve as a lens through which you interpret texts and events. For example, in a literature class analyzing a novel about moral choice, your Christian values might help you interpret a character’s decision in terms of forgiveness, sacrifice, or redemption. In a history paper on social justice movements, your faith-based commitment to human dignity could inform your analysis of civil rights struggles.
The crucial difference lies in how you present your beliefs. Avoid stating them as unquestionable truths. Instead, frame them as part of your interpretive framework. Use phrases like:
This approach shows respect for both the source material and your own intellectual journey.
There are, however, a few pitfalls to avoid. First, do not let personal beliefs replace evidence or reasoning. Your opinion should not substitute for textual analysis. Always ground your claims in the text—whether it’s Aristotle’s arguments, historical facts, or literary devices. Second, avoid absolutist language like “Aristotle is wrong because…” or “My faith proves this.” Instead, use qualifying language: “Aristotle’s view may not fully account for…” or “This raises questions about…”
Finally, be mindful of the assignment’s purpose. If the task is to summarize Aristotle’s argument, focus on clarity and accuracy. If it’s to evaluate or compare, then your personal perspective becomes a valuable tool. Always check the prompt and consult your instructor if unsure.
Engaging with Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics is not about adopting his views wholesale, nor is it about silencing your own. It is about entering a centuries-old conversation—one that welcomes diverse voices, including yours. Your Catholic Christian beliefs are not an obstacle to understanding Aristotle; they are a resource for deepening your engagement with his ideas.
When you write about the ethical good, don’t shy away from your convictions. Instead, use them to ask better questions, challenge assumptions, and explore the richness of human thought. The most compelling academic writing doesn’t erase the self—it reveals it, thoughtfully and respectfully, in dialogue with the great minds of the past.
So yes, it is perfectly acceptable—and often enriching—to bring your own beliefs into your essays. Just remember: the goal is not to prove your belief right, but to think more deeply, more honestly, and more fully. And in that pursuit, your voice matters.