I'm good for my sake...: Eudemonism a personal philosophy

At a social gathering about ten years ago, Gosta Oleander, a fraternal friend, asked me the question: what is the Absolute? The only answer I could give him at that time was: something that exists by itself but lacks evidence. During the past years, I have made a study of philosophy and read many books on the subject, in trying to find a better answer. The greatest problem in developing a philosophy is to conceive a natural morality whereby one can be persuaded to virtue without the stimulus of supernatural hopes and fears. In this I personally feel a study of the works of the numerous philosophers and the utilization of logical reason and foresight have all helped me develop a conception of a rational system of ethics. The study led me to develop a personal philosophy and a system of ethics I termed "eudemonism" It closely follows the dictionary definition of this system of ethics and includes my best answer to the question. In outlining this philosophy, I tried to adhere to simple basic issues that are not philosophical complexities. It includes many thoughts and direct quotations of learned men. I have tried to organize and express their words and aptly expressed ideas as my own. My wife Elsie has been most helpful in developing this concept, we have spent many pleasant hours discussing and reviewing the many aspects of philosophy.