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Aristotle characterized three different types of friendships, according to a recent article in Philosophy Now by Dr. Timothy Madigan. They include friendships of utility, friendships of pleasure, and friendships of good.

Friendships of utility offer some mutual advantage to both parties (for example, co-workers, business partners, classmates)

Friendships of pleasure describe those where people simply enjoy spending time together (for example, members of a book club or women who shop or exercise together)

Friendships of good are relationships that tend to be lifelong, based on people valuing each other's virtues

Friendships of utility and friendships of pleasure come and go with changing life circumstances, but friendships of good tend to be more enduring.

Aristotle suggests that when it comes to friendships of good, there are limits to the number of them that can be juggled simultaneously.

“To be a friend to many people in the way of the perfect friendship is not possible,” wrote the great Greek philosopher.

Points to ponder:

When thinking about your own friendships, which type predominates?

Do you have all kinds?

Which ones tend to most enrich your life?

How many "best friends" are too many?