“We become just by performing just action, temperate by performing temperate actions, brave by performing brave action.”
- 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
“We become just by performing just action, temperate by performing temperate actions, brave by performing brave action.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle emphasizes that virtue is not something inherent or abstract but is developed through repeated actions. According to Aristotle, we become just, temperate, and brave by actively practicing these virtues in our everyday lives. Just as a skill is honed through practice, virtues like justice, temperance, and bravery are cultivated by consistently performing actions that align with those qualities. Virtue is a matter of habit, and through doing virtuous things, we shape our character and become virtuous individuals.
This concept is still highly applicable today. In modern life, achieving personal growth and moral character involves continuous effort and action. For example, a person who wants to be more just in their interactions with others will cultivate this trait by consistently choosing fair and equitable actions, even in difficult situations. Similarly, someone striving for temperance in habits like eating or drinking will gradually become more self-controlled by making temperate choices repeatedly. Courage is similarly developed by repeatedly acting in ways that demonstrate bravery, whether that’s standing up for what is right or facing personal challenges with resolve.
A contemporary example of this can be seen in leadership development programs. Leaders aren’t born, they are made through practice. A leader becomes brave by consistently making bold decisions, just by ensuring fairness in their actions, and temperate by exercising restraint in their personal and professional life. Aristotle’s wisdom teaches us that virtue is something that must be earned and practiced, rather than passively acquired, urging us to engage in actions that build our character and contribute to our moral development.
