Aristotle's Definition of Virtue: Exploring the Essence of Ethics

In his renowned work, "Nicomachean Ethics," Aristotle presents a definition of virtue that has sparked considerable discussion and debate among scholars and thinkers over the centuries. Within this definition, Aristotle describes virtue as "a state that decides, consisting in a mean, relative to us, which is defined by reference to a reason, that is to say, to the reason by reference to which the prudent person would define it" (Aristotle as cited in Cahn 273).

The aim of this paper is to delve deeper into this interpretation and explore the significant insights Aristotle offers in the realm of ethics.

One notable aspect Aristotle emphasizes is that virtue is not an inherent quality within an individual but rather a temporary state of mind. This perspective implies that both vice and virtue have the potential to exist within every human being, suggesting that moral character is not fixed but rather subject to change and development.

Another crucial element highlighted by Aristotle is the concept of the mean or balance.

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This aspect forms the cornerstone of his argument, as he asserts that extremes and extremism are unsuitable for ethical judgment. Without this emphasis, Aristotle's definition could have led to a rigid dichotomy between ethical and unethical judgments, disregarding the importance of moderation and the ability to avoid intolerant positions.

Furthermore, Aristotle includes the phrase "relative to us" (Aristotle as cited in Cahn 273) in his definition, a phrase that should not be overlooked. It suggests that there is no universal standard of virtue, as ethical norms are determined by different individuals and communities and may vary accordingly.

This recognition of relativism highlights a crucial issue that must be taken into consideration when engaging in ethical discussions.

Moreover, Aristotle introduces two essential components to his definition of virtue. He asserts that virtue is always rooted in reason. While this may seem obvious, it challenges the prevalent notion that ethics is driven solely by emotions rather than rationality. By incorporating reason into the definition, Aristotle underscores the vital role of rational thinking in ethical deliberation.

Lastly, it is worth noting that Aristotle refers to the concept of prudence. In this context, prudence denotes the ability to comprehend one's own interests and goals. Once again, Aristotle establishes a strong connection between human rationality and virtue, underlining the significance of understanding oneself and aligning personal aims with virtuous conduct.

Overall, Aristotle's definition of virtue seeks to elucidate how individuals should approach ethics and moral norms. His emphasis on rationality, prudence, and the absence of universal standards provides readers with valuable insights into ethical contemplation. These key points serve as focal areas to which the philosopher draws attention in his works, urging readers to reflect upon and engage with these fundamental concepts.