Single Idea 23402

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 1. Virtue Theory / a. Nature of virtue]

Full Idea

Those of highest virtue do not strive for virtue, and so they have it.

Gist of Idea

The highest virtue is achieved without effort

Source

Laozi (Lao Tzu) (Daodejing (Tao Te Ching) [c.530 BCE], 38), quoted by Bryan van Norden - Intro to Classical Chinese Philosophy 8.II.2

Book Reference

Norden,Bryan van: 'Intro to Classical Chinese Philosophy' [Hackett 2011], p.128


A Reaction

Every moralist's dream is the person to whom virtue comes so naturally that no thought is required. This says they don't even notice it; Aristotle says they simply enjoying behaving virtuously.

Related Idea

Idea 2689 Good people enjoy virtuous action, just as musicians enjoy beautiful melodies [Aristotle]