Single Idea 17221

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / j. Unity of virtue]

Full Idea

The man who is ignorant of himself is ignorant of the foundation of all the virtues, and consequently is ignorant of all the virtues.

Gist of Idea

A man ignorant of himself is ignorant of all of the virtues

Source

Baruch de Spinoza (The Ethics [1675], IV Pr 56)

Book Reference

Spinoza,Benedict de: 'Ethics', ed/tr. White,WH/Stirling,AH [Wordsworth 2001], p.203


A Reaction

This would appeal to Aristotle, for whom the social virtues are an aspect of one's own character, and not a calculation made about externals.

Related Idea

Idea 17220 Self-satisfaction is the highest thing for which we can hope [Spinoza]