Avoided Quote by Aristotle
“Of cases where a man is truthful both in speech and conduct when no considerations of honesty come in, from an habitual sincerity of disposition. Such sincerity may be esteemed a moral excellence; for the lover of truth, who is truthful even when nothing depends on it, will a fortiori be truthful when some interest is at stake, since having all along avoided falsehood for its own sake, he will assuredly avoid it when it is morally base; and this is a disposition that we praise.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle, c. 350 BC
A person who habitually tells the truth, even without external pressure, demonstrates moral excellence and will likely remain truthful when personal interests are involved.
In simple terms: Consistent honesty shows moral character and persists under pressure.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate truthfulness for its own sake.
Themes
integrity
morality
character
honesty
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- professional settings
- legal testimony
- academic work
Key Concepts
virtue ethics
moral psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates you to be honest when no one is watching?
- How can you maintain honesty under pressure?
A Different Perspective
Even sincere people may face dilemmas where truth conflicts with self‑preservation.
![“The virtues [moral excellence] therefore are engendered in us neither by nature nor yet in violation of nature; nature gives us the capacity to receive them, and this capacity is brought to maturity by habit.” quote by Aristotle](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/653/aristotle-78_capacity_the-virtues-moral-excellence-therefore-a_1076391.jpg)
