Perfectionism

Abstract This chapter describes perfectionism, a theory of the good life according to which well-being is a matter of the exercise and development of the capacities or features that are central to human nature. Perfectionism is an objective theory of well-being, as opposed to a subjective one, meaning that the excellence of human nature is good regardless of whether or not it brings pleasure or is the object of any subjective attitude such as desire. In this chapter, the advantages of perfectionism over competing theories are discussed, as well as the varieties of perfectionist views. Particular attention is given to developing an answer to the overlooked question of relative value according to perfectionism—that is, to the question of how perfectionist value can vary in degree, both intra- and interpersonally. Finally, perfectionism is defended against its primary objections, including the extent to which perfectionism can account for intrinsic bads.