What is ‘Telos’? The Greek Concept of Purpose and Meaning…

  • Release for Public view 2023/08/18         
  • From Zero to Hero: Part of the Introduction          
  • Vision to “Tellos” – Greek Philosophy

The Greek word “telos” means “end, goal, or purpose.” It is a concept that has been explored by philosophers for centuries. In Greek philosophy, telos is often used to refer to the ultimate purpose of human existence.

Plato believed that the telos of human beings is to achieve eudaimonia, which is often translated as “happiness” or “well-being.” However, Plato’s eudaimonia is not simply about pleasure or happiness at the moment. It is about living a life that is in accordance with reason and virtue.

Aristotle also believed that the telos of human beings is to achieve eudaimonia. However, he defined eudaimonia in a slightly unique way. For Aristotle, eudaimonia is about living a life that is in accordance with our nature as rational beings. It is about developing our potential and living a life of virtue.

The Stoics also believed in the concept of telos. However, they had a different view of what it means to live a life of purpose. The Stoics believed that we should live in accordance with nature. This means accepting the things that we cannot control and focusing on the things that we can control.

The Epicureans had a different view of the telos than the Stoics. They believed that the goal of life is to achieve pleasure and avoid pain. However, they also believed that we should avoid excesses and cultivate moderation in all things.

The concept of telos is still relevant today. Many people still search for their purpose in life. They want to know what they are meant to do with their lives. The concept of telos can help us to answer these questions. It can help us to understand our own potential and to live a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.

Real-life applications of the concept of ‘Telos

The concept of telos can be applied to many different areas of our lives. Here are a few examples:

  • Career: When choosing a career, we can ask ourselves what our telos are. What do we want to achieve in our work? What kind of impact do we want to make?
  • Relationships: In our relationships, we can ask ourselves what our telos are. What kind of relationships do we want to have? What kind of impact do we want to have on others?
  • Personal development: We can also use the concept of telos to guide our personal development. What do we want to learn and grow? What kind of person do we want to become?
  • Spiritual life: The concept of telos can also be applied to our spiritual life. What is our purpose in the universe? What is our relationship to the divine?

The concept of telos is a powerful tool that can help us to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life. By understanding our own telos, we can make better choices and live a life that is in alignment with our deepest values.

I hope this blog post has helped you to understand the concept of telos from Greek philosophy. If you are interested in learning more, I encourage you to read the works of the ancient Greek philosophers. They have much to teach us about the meaning of life and our place in the universe.

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With Love, Gratitude and Grace,

Yvonne E Venter-Louw

  • YEVL (Pty) Ltd. Founding Director & Principal
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