Book 8 / Chapter 12
Paragraph 4 - Duties in Relationships
Explanation - Part By Part
"How man and wife and in general friend and friend ought mutually to behave seems to be the same question as how it is just for them to behave;"
This part is pointing out that the way people, whether husband and wife or friends, are expected to treat each other is closely tied to what is considered "just" or fair in their relationship. Essentially, Aristotle is saying that the ethical duties and responsibilities people have towards each other in close relationships align with what justice demands between them—how they should act so that each person is treated appropriately within the context of their bond. Whether it's a marriage or a friendship, the idea of justice helps define the proper way to behave toward one another.
"for a man does not seem to have the same duties to a friend, a stranger, a comrade, and a schoolfellow."
This part emphasizes that the obligations and responsibilities we have towards others depend on the kind of relationship we share with them. Aristotle acknowledges that our sense of duty and behavior should naturally differ depending on whether we are dealing with a close friend, an acquaintance, a colleague, or someone we simply went to school with. Each of these relationships carries different expectations, levels of intimacy, and forms of interaction. He is suggesting that justice—what is fair or appropriate—within a relationship depends on the nature of that relationship. In modern terms, it highlights how relationships are defined by varying degrees of closeness and obligation, and treating every relationship identically would not reflect this natural variation.