Meaning: This quote from Aristotle delves into the concept of perfect friendship, emphasizing the essential qualities and conditions that make a friendship truly exemplary. In order to fully understand this quote, it is necessary to delve into the context and the philosophical framework of Aristotle's thoughts on friendship.

Aristotle, a renowned ancient Greek philosopher, dedicated a significant portion of his work to the exploration of ethics and human relationships. In his Nicomachean Ethics, he extensively discusses the nature of friendship, categorizing it into three types: friendships of utility, friendships of pleasure, and friendships of the good. It is within this framework that the quote about perfect friendship can be interpreted.

Aristotle posits that perfect friendship, or what he refers to as "friendship of the good," is characterized by the virtuous and excellent nature of the individuals involved. He emphasizes the importance of both individuals being inherently good and virtuous, as well as being similar in their pursuit of excellence. This similarity in excellence is crucial, as it allows the friends to understand and appreciate the goodness in each other, fostering a mutual desire for the well-being and flourishing of the other person.

The first part of the quote, "Perfect friendship is the friendship of men who are good, and alike in excellence," underscores the foundational requirement of virtue and similarity in excellence for the attainment of perfect friendship. According to Aristotle, individuals who possess virtuous qualities such as honesty, integrity, and moral goodness are capable of forming the highest form of friendship based on mutual respect and admiration for each other's character.

The phrase "for these wish well alike to each other qua good" highlights the reciprocal nature of perfect friendship. In this type of friendship, both individuals genuinely desire the well-being and happiness of the other person, not for any external gain or pleasure, but simply because they recognize and appreciate the inherent goodness and virtue in their friend. This selfless concern for the other person's goodness and flourishing is a fundamental aspect of perfect friendship according to Aristotle.

Furthermore, the quote states, "and they are good in themselves," emphasizing the intrinsic goodness and moral integrity of the individuals involved in perfect friendship. Aristotle's emphasis on the goodness of the individuals is a reflection of his broader ethical framework, which prioritizes the cultivation of virtuous character and the pursuit of eudaimonia, or human flourishing.

In conclusion, this quote encapsulates Aristotle's profound insights into the nature of perfect friendship, highlighting the significance of virtue, similarity in excellence, mutual goodwill, and intrinsic goodness. It serves as a timeless reminder of the noble ideals and qualities that underpin the most profound and fulfilling human relationships. Aristotle's ethical teachings continue to resonate across centuries, offering invaluable guidance on the cultivation of virtuous friendships and the pursuit of a meaningful, ethical life.