Character Quote by Aristotle
““Hence while in respect of its substance and the definition that states what it really is in essence virtue is the observance of the mean, in point of excellence and rightness it is an extreme.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle, c. 350 BC
Virtue lies between deficiency and excess; the highest excellence is an extreme of the mean.
In simple terms: Virtue is a balanced mean, but excellence can be extreme.
Key Takeaway
Seek balance, but recognize when excellence requires going beyond the mean.
Themes
virtue
ethics
balance
excellence
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal decision
- leadership decisions
- moral dilemmas
- performance optimization
Key Concepts
Aristotelian ethics
golden mean
extreme virtue
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it appropriate to push beyond the mean?
- How do you differentiate excellence from excess?
A Different Perspective
Excess can become vice if not guided by wisdom.
