Book 8 / Chapter 4
Paragraph 2 - Friends of Pleasure and Utility vs. True Friendship
Explanation - Part By Part
"For the sake of pleasure or utility, then, even bad men may be friends of each other, or good men of bad, or one who is neither good nor bad may be a friend to any sort of person,"
Aristotle is pointing out that friendships based on pleasure or utility (benefit) can exist between all kinds of people—whether they are morally "bad," "good," or somewhere in between. These types of friendships don’t require two morally virtuous people. For example, two individuals with questionable character might form a friendship if they find each other amusing or if working together provides mutual gain. Similarly, a good person might form such a bond with a less virtuous person if it serves a particular purpose or brings enjoyment. This type of connection doesn’t rest on shared moral or virtuous qualities—it’s practical or enjoyment-driven.
"but for their own sake clearly only good men can be friends; for bad men do not delight in each other unless some advantage come of the relation."
Aristotle is arguing that true friendship, the kind that exists for its own sake, can only happen between good people—those who value and appreciate each other for who they truly are. In contrast, bad people cannot experience this kind of genuine bond because they do not find joy in each other's company unless there is some personal gain or benefit involved. Essentially, their interactions are transactional, not rooted in mutual respect, virtue, or genuine affection.