Skip to content

Behave Quote by Aristotle

“When...we, as individuals, obey laws that direct us to behave for the welfare of the community as a whole, we are indirectly helping to promote the pursuit of happiness by our fellow human beings.” quote by Aristotle
Download Open image
“When...we, as individuals, obey laws that direct us to behave for the welfare of the community as a whole, we are indirectly helping to promote the pursuit of happiness by our fellow human beings.”

Aristotle

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Nicomachean Ethics, Book III, 350 BC

Obeying laws for communal welfare indirectly supports others' pursuit of happiness.

In simple terms: Following laws helps others be happy.

Key Takeaway

Act for the common good to foster collective happiness.

Themes

ethics law community happiness social responsibility

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public policy
  • community service
  • education
  • workplace conduct

Key Concepts

civic duty utilitarianism social contract

Questions to Reflect On

  • What laws promote the common good?
  • When should individuals challenge unjust laws?
A Different Perspective

Legal compliance may conflict with personal moral convictions.

2.8 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Aristotle

Explore all 1,545 Aristotle quotes

More Behave quotes

Browse all 1,587 Behave quotes