If a man of good natural disposition acquires Intelligence…
![“If a man of good natural disposition acquires Intelligence [as a whole], then he excels in conduct, and the disposition which previously only resembled Virtue, will now be Virtue in the true sense. Hence just as with the faculty of forming opinions [the calculative faculty] there are two…” quote by Aristotle](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/89e/aristotle-78_acquire_if-a-man-of-good-natural-disposition-acq_342320.jpg)
“If a man of good natural disposition acquires Intelligence [as a whole], then he excels in conduct, and the disposition which previously only resembled Virtue, will now be Virtue in the true sense. Hence just as with the faculty of forming opinions [the calculative faculty] there are two qualities, Cleverness and Prudence, so also in the moral part of the soul there are two qualities, natural virtue and true Virtue; and true Virtue cannot exist without Prudence.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
True virtue arises when natural disposition combines with prudence, turning good intentions into genuine moral excellence.
In simple terms: Virtue needs both character and wise judgment.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate both character and prudence.
Themes
virtue
prudence
character development
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- leadership decisions
- ethical dilemmas
- personal growth
- education
- policy making
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
human flourishing
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you practice prudence daily?
- Can you identify a moment when prudence turned a good intention into true virtue?
A Different Perspective
Without prudence, natural goodness remains incomplete.