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Goodness is to do good to the deserving and love the good…

“Goodness is to do good to the deserving and love the good and hate the wicked, and not to be eager to inflict punishment or take vengeance, but to be gracious and kindly and forgiving.” quote by Aristotle
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“Goodness is to do good to the deserving and love the good and hate the wicked, and not to be eager to inflict punishment or take vengeance, but to be gracious and kindly and forgiving.”

Aristotle

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

True goodness is kindness to the worthy, love for virtue, and forgiveness over vengeance.

In simple terms: Be kind, love virtue, forgive.

Key Takeaway

Practice compassionate justice.

Themes

ethics virtue forgiveness

Mood

reflective serene

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • parenting
  • leadership
  • community building

Key Concepts

moral philosophy human flourishing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance justice with mercy?
  • When is forgiveness most challenging?
A Different Perspective

Forgiveness can be hard when harm is severe.

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