Mean Quote by Aristotle
““There is no such thing as observing a mean in excess or deficiency, nor as exceeding or falling short in observance of a mean.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Nichomachean Ethics, Aristotle, c. 350 BC
Aristotle argues that virtue lies in a balanced middle ground, avoiding extremes of excess and deficiency.
In simple terms: Virtue is the balanced middle path.
Seek moderation in actions and desires.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- leadership
- conflict resolution
- health habits
- financial planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you identify the appropriate middle ground in a given situation?
- When might a deviation from the mean be justified?
Excess or deficiency may be culturally relative, making the "mean" ambiguous.