Action Quote by Aristotle
“Everything that depends on the action of nature is by nature as good as it can be, and similarly everything that depends on art or any rational cause, and especially if it depends on the best of all causes.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle, 4th century BC
Things that arise from natural processes are as good as they can be, and the same holds for things created by rational design, especially when the design is optimal.
In simple terms: Natural or rationally designed things are as good as possible.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the limits of natural and rational outcomes.
Themes
philosophy
ethics
nature
humancraft
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- environmental policy
- product design
- agricultural planning
- technology development
Key Concepts
teleology
optimality
causality
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria define “best” in design?
- How do we assess natural versus artificial goodness?
A Different Perspective
Human judgment can misjudge what is truly optimal.
