Capable Quote by Aristotle
“Both Self-restraint and Unrestraint are a matter of extremes as compared with the character of the mass of mankind; the restrained man shows more and the unrestrained man less steadfastness than most men are capable of.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Nicomachean Ethics, Book III, 350 BC
Balance between self-control and excess defines moral character; extremes hinder steadfastness.
In simple terms: Moderation is key to virtue.
Key Takeaway
Seek balance, avoid extremes.
Themes
virtue
moderation
character
self-control
Mood
reflective
philosophical
Type
ethical
didactic
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- leadership
- conflict resolution
- habit formation
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- When does restraint become suppression?
- How to recognize healthy self-discipline?
A Different Perspective
Extreme positions can alienate others and reduce effectiveness.
![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
