“The moral virtues, then, are produced in us neither by nature nor against nature. Nature, indeed, prepares in us the ground for their reception, but their complete formation is the product of habit.”
- 384 BC – 322 BC
- Originating from Macedonia in ancient Greece
- Philosopher and scientist, founder of the Lyceum academy
- A student of Plato, he constructed systematic knowledge in logic, biology, politics, ethics, etc., and had a major impact on the development of Western thought and science
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Quote
“The moral virtues, then, are produced in us neither by nature nor against nature. Nature, indeed, prepares in us the ground for their reception, but their complete formation is the product of habit.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle argues that moral virtues are not innate or instinctual but are developed over time through habit. While humans are born with the potential to develop virtuous traits, it is through repeated actions and conscious practice that these virtues become ingrained in our character. Nature may provide the raw material—such as the capacity for reason and emotion—but it is through habitual practice that these natural tendencies are shaped into virtues like courage, honesty, and generosity.
Aristotle’s view on virtue formation aligns with modern psychological understandings of behavior, which emphasize the role of habit in shaping character. In contemporary life, we see that consistently making ethical choices in everyday situations leads to the cultivation of strong moral values. For example, someone who regularly practices empathy and kindness may develop these qualities into a deep, enduring characteristic. On the contrary, neglecting to practice virtues like patience or honesty can lead to the opposite outcome—weakening these traits over time.
In practical terms, Aristotle’s observation is evident in the way we raise children or train individuals for personal and professional development. A child raised in an environment where honesty and respect are habitually modeled will likely internalize these values, just as an athlete who practices discipline, perseverance, and teamwork will naturally become skilled in these traits. Aristotle reminds us that virtue is not an inherent gift, but a result of intentional, habitual action that shapes who we are over time.
