“Of all the varieties of virtues, liberalism is the most beloved.”
- 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
“Of all the varieties of virtues, liberalism is the most beloved.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle highlights liberalism (in the classical sense, referring to generosity and the willingness to give to others) as the most admired or beloved of all virtues. Liberalism here is understood as the quality of being free-handed, generous, and open-hearted, particularly in the context of sharing wealth, knowledge, or resources with others. Aristotle suggests that this virtue is highly valued because it not only benefits others but also promotes a sense of community and social harmony. A person who is liberal is someone who contributes to the common good, without expecting personal gain in return, embodying a spirit of selflessness and community-mindedness.
This idea continues to resonate today, particularly in discussions about philanthropy, social responsibility, and civic engagement. The idea of liberalism as generosity or the giving of resources for the benefit of others is often seen as a noble and admirable quality. In modern society, individuals who contribute their time, money, or expertise to help others—whether through charitable donations, volunteer work, or community service—are often highly regarded for their altruism and generosity.
For example, a philanthropist who donates large sums of money to support education or healthcare may be celebrated for their liberalism, not just for the financial contribution, but for the positive social impact they create. Aristotle’s quote serves as a reminder that generosity and the willingness to contribute to the well-being of others are deeply cherished virtues, vital to fostering social cohesion and mutual support in any community.
