“The virtue of justice consists in moderation, as regulated by wisdom.”
- 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
Quote
“The virtue of justice consists in moderation, as regulated by wisdom.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle explains that justice, as a virtue, is about finding balance and moderation in our actions and relationships with others. Justice is not an extreme or rigid principle, but rather a state of equilibrium that ensures fairness and harmony. However, this balance is not arbitrary—it is regulated by wisdom, meaning that true justice requires practical judgment and rational understanding. Wisdom helps determine the right course of action in each situation, ensuring that justice is neither too lenient nor too harsh, but appropriately measured according to the needs and circumstances of those involved.
This concept is still highly applicable in modern life, particularly in legal, social, and personal contexts. In today’s world, justice is often seen as the fair distribution of rights and resources, but Aristotle’s view adds a layer of wisdom—emphasizing that justice is not just about equality, but about what is right and appropriate for each individual case. In legal systems, this balance is evident when courts use their judgment to apply laws to specific situations, ensuring that the punishment or solution fits the crime or issue at hand.
In personal relationships, justice requires finding a balance between self-interest and the needs of others. For example, being just in a friendship means treating the other person fairly, but also knowing when to stand up for your own needs. Aristotle’s definition of justice encourages us to act with moderation and wisdom, avoiding both extremes of excessive generosity or harshness, and instead seeking a balanced approach to ensure fairness, respect, and harmony in all our interactions.
