neoAristotelian

Neo-Aristotelian is a term used in contemporary philosophy to describe a family of positions that draw on Aristotle's thought and attempt to apply or reinterpret it for modern problems. It does not denote a single school but a revivalist movement that engages with Aristotle's ethics, metaphysics, and natural philosophy.

Core themes include a commitment to teleology—the view that processes and living beings have intrinsic ends; the hylomorphic idea that substances are compounds of form and matter; and a virtue-centered account of evaluation where character and practical wisdom (phronesis) guide action more than rules or consequences alone. Some neo-Aristotelians also defend aspects of Aristotle's causal framework, including explanations by final causes where appropriate.

In ethics, neo-Aristotelianism often advances virtue ethics, focusing on flourishing or eudaimonia and the role of practical reason in forming virtuous character. In metaphysics and philosophy of mind, proponents may defend form-based explanations or a nuanced view of explanation and mechanism inspired by Aristotle. In philosophy of science, the approach may advocate teleological explanations in biology or reject reductionist models that neglect purpose-like explanations in living systems.

The movement is diverse, with scholars emphasizing different elements of Aristotle. It emerged in the 20th century and continues to contrast with more deontological, consequentialist, or strictly naturalistic frameworks. Critics challenge the coherence of final causes with modern science and question the applicability of Aristotle's ethics to contemporary pluralism. See also Aristotelianism, virtue ethics, hylomorphism.