Action Quote by Aristotle
“If we state the function of man to be a certain kind of life, and this to be an activity or actions of the soul implying a rational principle, and the function of a good man to be the good and noble performance of these, and if any action is well performed when it is performed in accordance with the appropriate excellence human good turns out to be activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, and if there are more than one virtue, in accordance with the best and most complete.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: Nicomachean Ethics, Book I, 350 BC
Human purpose is rational activity of the soul; a good life is achieved by performing virtuous actions excellently, guided by rational principles.
In simple terms: Virtue and reason define a good life.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate rational virtues.
Themes
ethics
purpose
virtue
reason
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal development
- leadership
- education
- policy making
Key Concepts
eudaimonia
human flourishing
moral excellence
Questions to Reflect On
- What virtues are most essential today?
- How does rationality guide moral choices?
A Different Perspective
Virtue may be interpreted differently across cultures, creating conflict.
