If the virtues are neither passions nor facilities, all that remains is that they should be states of character.
Aristotle__
Aristotle, one of the most influential philosophers in Western thought, believed that the virtues were essential to living a good life. In his Nicomachean Ethics, he wrote, “If the virtues are neither passions nor facilities, all that remains is that they should be states of character.” This quote highlights Aristotle’s belief that virtues are not simply innate abilities or fleeting emotions, but rather enduring dispositions that define a person’s character. In this article, we will explore this quote and what it means for Aristotle’s philosophy of ethics.
Defining the Virtues
Before we can explore Aristotle’s view of virtues as states of character, it is important to define what we mean by “virtues.” In Aristotle’s philosophy, virtues are moral qualities that enable individuals to act in accordance with reason and to live a good life. These virtues include traits such as courage, honesty, kindness, and justice.
Virtues as States of Character
According to Aristotle, virtues are not simply a matter of acting in a certain way, but are instead a part of a person’s character. Virtues are not passions or emotions, nor are they simply abilities that can be learned or acquired through practice. Instead, virtues are enduring dispositions that define a person’s character and guide their actions.
For example, a person who has developed the virtue of courage does not simply act bravely in a particular situation, but rather has a disposition towards bravery that guides their actions in all aspects of their life. Similarly, a person who has developed the virtue of honesty does not simply tell the truth in certain situations, but rather has a disposition towards honesty that informs their actions in all aspects of their life.
The Importance of Virtues in Ethics
For Aristotle, the development of virtues was essential to living a good life. He believed that virtues were not only important for their own sake, but also led to a life of flourishing and happiness. Virtues enable individuals to act in accordance with reason and to live a life that is in harmony with the world around them.
Additionally, Aristotle believed that virtues were important for the functioning of society as a whole. He argued that a society could not function well without individuals who possessed virtues such as justice, courage, and wisdom. By developing these virtues, individuals were able to contribute to the well-being of society as a whole.
In conclusion, Aristotle’s philosophy of ethics emphasizes the importance of virtues as enduring dispositions that define a person’s character. By developing virtues such as courage, honesty, and justice, individuals are able to live a good life in accordance with reason and to contribute to the well-being of society as a whole. This quote highlights the centrality of virtues in Aristotle’s philosophy and serves as a reminder of the importance of developing these qualities in our own lives.
