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E thics, philosophy of action [Greek bouleusis , a prerequisite of prohairesis , decision] Aristotle discussed deliberation in the Nicomachean Ethics , Book 3, Ch. 3. The objects of deliberation are the things that can be calculated with probability and can be brought about by our efforts. Starting from an assumed end, that is, an accepted object of desire or wish, deliberation analyzes the ways and means by which the end can be achieved, and terminates in a rational choice and appropriate action. In Greek “means to the end” are things related to a goal, and the term is broader than the modern conception of instrumental means to an end. Deliberation, which enables a person to know what he must do if he is to achieve his objective, is a major feature in Aristotle's ethics and in contemporary virtue ethics . “We deliberate not about ends, but about what promotes ends.” Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics ... log in or subscribe to read full text