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Capacity Quote by Aristotle

“A state of the soul is either (1) an emotion, (2) a capacity, or (3) a disposition; virtue therefore must be one of these three things.” quote by Aristotle
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“A state of the soul is either (1) an emotion, (2) a capacity, or (3) a disposition; virtue therefore must be one of these three things.”

Aristotle

About This Quote

Virtue is classified as an emotion, capacity, or disposition, indicating that moral character is rooted in affective, potential, and habitual aspects of the self.

In simple terms: Virtue is a mental state type

Key Takeaway

Virtue aligns with emotional, potential, or habitual states

Themes

ethics psychology philosophy human nature character

Mood

contemplative analytical

Type

philosophical statement theoretical claim

When to use this quote

  • moral decision‑making
  • personal development
  • education
  • counseling
  • leadership

Key Concepts

emotion capacity disposition virtue

Practical Applications

  • ethical training
  • character education

Questions to Reflect On

  • What determines which category a virtue belongs to?
  • How does this classification affect moral responsibility?
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