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It follows from what has been said above, that the good is, according to its concept, ??? ???? ??; thus, every good is essentially relative, for its being consists in its relation to a desiring will.
Absolute good is, therefore, a contradiction in terms; highest good, "summum bonum", really signifies the same thing—a final satisfaction of the will, after which no new desire could arise,—a last motive, the attainment of which would afford enduring satisfaction of the will.
But, according to the investigations which have already been conducted in this Fourth Book, such a consummation is not even thinkable.
The will can just as little cease from willing altogether on account of some particular satisfaction, as time can end or begin; for it there is no such thing as a permanent fulfilment which shall completely and for ever satisfy its craving.
