Calculations Quote by Aristotle
“These two rational faculties may be designated the Scientific Faculty and the Calculative Faculty respectively; since calculation is the same as deliberation, and deliberation is never exercised about things that are invariable, so that the Calculative Faculty is a separate part of the rational half of the soul.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Nicomachean Ethics, 4th century BC
Aristotle distinguishes two rational parts of the soul: the scientific faculty for understanding unchanging truths and the calculative faculty for deliberation on variable matters.
In simple terms: Two rational parts: one for fixed truths, one for variable decisions.
Apply appropriate reasoning to each type of problem.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- decision making
- scientific research
- ethical dilemmas
- education curriculum
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance fixed knowledge with flexible decision‑making?
- Can both faculties work together?
The separation may oversimplify the integration of knowledge and action.