Being real Quote by Aristotle
“Those who merely possess the goods of fortune may be haughty and insolent; . . . they try to imitate the great-souled man without being really like him, and only copy him in what they can, reproducing his contempt for others but not his virtuous conduct. For the great-souled man is justified in despising other people - his estimates are correct; but most proud men have no good ground for their pride.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle, 4th century BC
True virtue cannot be faked; merely copying outward traits without inner moral character leads to false pride.
In simple terms: Virtue requires inner goodness, not just imitation.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate authentic character.
Themes
ethics
pride
virtue
imitation
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- education
- personal growth
- social interaction
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
character development
Questions to Reflect On
- Can imitation ever replace genuine virtue?
- How does true pride differ from false?
A Different Perspective
External displays may mask lack of true virtue.
