12 virtues of Aristotle- pillars of an unshakable character
Ever wondered, “What kind of person I ought to be?”
Self-contemplations may reveal certain answers to such questions. However, a deep dive into the philosophical study of “ethics” brings forth pointers that can shape our lives.
One of the most popular Greek philosophers, Aristotle has left indelible imprints in the fields of metaphysics, ethics, aesthetics, and politics.
According to Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, human beings are rational and sociable creatures who strive for a good life. The polymath’s philosophy of ethics was based on the idea that an individual with exemplary character will do what is correct at an opportune time, and in an appropriate manner. He argued that these principles could bring about eudaimonia, which can be translated as “human flourishing” or happiness.
Eudaimonia is attainable by leading a virtuous life, honing your character, and having a consistent ability to make the right choices without needing to second-guess yourself. It’s important to commit to this practice for as long as you can. When you reach a point in life where you can confidently make decisions and trust your judgement, then you know that you have reached a higher level of understanding yourself. You become less likely to make mistakes due to poor decision-making or flawed character.
Aristotle provided a holistic blueprint of virtue ethics called the “12 virtues of Aristotle.”
Do these have any significance in our lives?
Without further ado, let’s dive straight into the 12 virtues!
Courage- In the words of Aristotle, courage is the “observance of the mean with regard to things that excite confidence or fear, under the circumstances which we have specified, and chooses its course and sticks to its post because it is noble to do so, or because it is disgraceful not to do so.” Courage is the balance between caution and recklessness.
Purport: Leaving your job without any means of survival just to embark on a fanciful venture may be foolhardiness. On the other hand, not pursuing your desired career, even as a side hustle, for the fear of failure is cowardly.
Temperance- This is also considered one of the four cardinal virtues. Moderation is the key! It’s about finding a balance between enjoying life’s rewards and limiting behaviors so they don’t become counterproductive. Striking that happy medium can help you lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Purport: One of the most relevant examples of this virtue in the present day and age is the advent of social media. Even though it has brought people together, too much of it has caused serious mental and physical problems.
Liberality- It’s the virtue of generosity. Too much of it may stretch you beyond your means, but too little makes you self-centered.
Purport: This is like a literal translation of the old adage, “Charity begins at home.” You can tell your kids to "share and care," but not to the point where they give away their whole lunchboxes and go hungry.
Magnificence- Living lavishly can be seen as the balance between being too ostentatious and too conservative. Finding this midpoint is a virtue of its own.
Purport: I once read that Warren Buffet drives to his own office. While tycoons like him may well allow themselves the luxury of a chauffeur, it shouldn’t rob us of basic life skills like driving a car. This virtue is important for well-to-do parents to instill in their children. The wealth they have accumulated is hard-earned, and they deserve a life of comfort, but not extravagance.
Magnanimity- Finding the perfect balance between self-confidence and humility is key to unlocking your greatest potential. Have faith in yourself and be grateful for the many gifts you possess, but don’t let it become excessive so that you start becoming arrogant.
Purport: Rejoice and shine in the light of your success, but don’t demean a colleague who may have worked hard for the promotion that he missed.
Ambition- Be ambitious and strive to be the best version of yourself, but not at the expense of other virtues or cherishable moments in your life.
Purport: Ask your five-year-old son whether he would like to spend his birthday with his super-busy dad or if he would like a brand-new toy car. Though the little one might want both, your presence would bring the biggest smile to his face.
Patience- It’s an important virtue that builds emotional intelligence. Striking the right balance between ill-temper and submissiveness holds the key.
Purport: Scientific studies have revealed that anger generates poison in your body. However, even elastic has its own tolerance level. Be calm but firm wherever required.
Truthfulness- Honesty is the virtue that sets us apart from being simply habitual liars or too upfront. To take the middle path, being truthful is the right way to go.
Purport: The philosophy of “whole truth” may have to be tweaked in certain circumstances. Don’t sugar-coat your feedback on your friend’s unruly son, but refrain from taking charge of controlling his behaviour at every gathering.
Wittiness- Having a great sense of humor and intelligence is a virtue to possess. We all like the company of smart and witty people, but that shouldn’t be an invitation for clowning around.
Purport: A friend with a dry sense of humor is often a better companion than someone who makes a mockery of himself.
Friendliness- Aristotle believed that “friendship is a great virtue.” However, you need not consider anybody and everybody as your eternal mate. Be neither aloof nor overbearing in friendship.
Purport: Friends are a great source of joy and support. Nevertheless, refrain from being an “agony aunt” or a “crybaby” all the time.
Modesty- Being too shy or too shameless can both be detrimental; striking a balance between the two is key. Knowing when to be ashamed and what to be ashamed of is the ideal middle ground between humility and boldness.
Purport: This is a tricky one. If you feel you have not lived up to societal expectations in a given situation, allow yourself to admit that to the concerned people. But don’t carry the baggage around.
Justice- The greatest philosopher was an avid proponent of justice and fairness in all areas of life. He emphasized that everyone should be treated equally, regardless of their differences. But don’t allow this to turn into envy or spitefulness.
Purport: Your neighbor’s new Lexus shouldn’t make you so envious that you start spreading rumors about his alleged integrity issues.
Leading a virtuous life is akin to a ropewalk. Maintaining optimum balance holds the key. However, it’s only human to err once in a while, but it’s essential to realign the wheels of our lives as we move ahead.
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