In this module, we learned about the rarity of what Aristotle calls “soul friendship” or what Emerson calls “divine” friendship. Most philosophers concur that cultivating such a friendship requires an openness to it, an awareness that it will not likely occur, and a stringent honesty and affection.
In at least 250 words total, please answer each of the following, drawing upon your reading materials and your personal insight:
- If “soul friendships” represent our highest attainment of friendship and require great honesty and pure love, what might be our ethical obligation to attempt to nurture such friendships?
- Analyze, drawing upon examples from your own life, whether such friendships are possible and explain some of the ethical considerations that accompany them.