![]() ![]() A state is formed by repeated activity-or “ habituation”-and consists of a disposition to do a certain thing on the appropriate occasion. Such a state is achieved when someone determines the “mean” between two extremes. ![]() Aristotle’s larger argument in Nicomachean Ethics is that practicing virtues involves determining the “ mean” (the intermediate) between an excess and a deficiency, and that this determination requires wisdom, not a mechanical application of a method.Īccording to Aristotle, a virtue is a state of something whereby it performs its intended function well. But becoming virtuous is much more than simply knowing what the virtues are. Aristotle identifies two types of virtue-virtues of thought, which are associated with the rational part of the soul (these include prudence, understanding, and deliberation), and virtues of character, which are associated with the cooperation of the nonrational parts of the soul with reason (these include bravery, temperance, generosity, and truthfulness, among a number of others). To live a happy life, Aristotle claims, it’s necessary to know which virtues one must put into practice in order to attain happiness. ![]()
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