Opinion Quote by Aristotle
“Phronimos, possessing practical wisdom . But the only virtue special to a ruler is practical wisdom; all the others must be possessed, so it seems, both by rulers and ruled. The virtue of a person being ruled is not practical wisdom but correct opinion; he is rather like a person who makes the pipes, while the ruler is the one who can play them.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle, 4th century BC
Practical wisdom is the chief virtue for rulers; others need it too, while subjects rely on correct opinion.
In simple terms: Rulers need practical wisdom; subjects need correct opinion.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate practical wisdom if you lead.
Themes
leadership
virtue
wisdom
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- education
- decision making
- governance
Key Concepts
practical wisdom
correct opinion
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can leaders develop practical wisdom?
- What role does correct opinion play for citizens?
A Different Perspective
Rulers may lack practical wisdom despite education.
