In The Nicomachean Ethics Aristotle discusses what makes a good professional. For Aristotle the difference between the ordinary and the exceptional is his balance between reason and soul: “the function of man is an activity of the soul in accordance with or implying, a rational principle” (109a8-9). Aristotle specifically distinguished a harpist from a good harpist, a comparison applicable to the medical profession. Aristotle argued that a good harpist is someone who uses his ability to play the harp, his rational principle, alongside his passion for the harp, the activity of his soul. Likewise, a good doctor is one who Continue reading