When we discussed Aristotle's virtues today in class, we articulated the idea that for every virtue, (as he writes) has two negative and un-virtuous character traits, both lacking and secondly, overcompensating for the virtue. For courage lies between cowardice and foolhardiness, temperance between indulgence and intolerance, and so on.
Perhaps the concept of balance that comes with exemplifying virtue is more deliberative for some people, rather than those of whom certain virtue is habituated to the point of intuitively quick actions when conflict arises. Lincoln was notably cautious and deliberative, as we have established as well. Thoughts?
Dominick, you bring up some interesting points. I am inclined to agree with you that, “Perhaps the concept of balance that comes with exemplifying virtue is more deliberative for some people, rather than those of whom certain virtue is habituated to the point of intuitively quick actions when conflict arises.” I think another way to word Aristotle’s point is “a moderation between extremes is often most beneficial”. In the case of Lincoln, and other famous historians, I believe that luck plays a substantial role. After all, as the saying goes, “Fortune favors the brave.” Sometimes a person has to take risks that may not be virtuous, but lead to virtuous outcomes. In other words, given what we see in history, is the most successful move that which is in the center of moderation, or perhaps slightly to the more risky side? Lincoln made risky moves in his political career that now can be viewed as virtuous, but at the time lead some to plot kidnappings and ultimately his assassination, yet many would say he changed our country for the better.
ReplyDeleteI think that virtue is both deliberative and habituated for all of us, in varying degrees across the different virtues, and that it need not be one or the other. For instance, someone who is habitually courageous in a way that appears natural and easy, might need to deliberate with more lengthy focus and thought, to successfully be patient. As well, I think that habituation can be a result of regular deliberation, and that result is an important and essential part of practice (through deliberation.)
ReplyDeleteIn some situations, there is not time for deliberation, so quick reactions are necessary.
Thanks, Justin. I find this thought clarifying, and very much in the spirit of Aristotle, who is not searching for a single criterion of virtue but merely wants to understand it as the complex phenomenon it is.
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