Single Idea 4394

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / e. Character]

Full Idea

In every sphere of conduct people develop qualities corresponding to the activities that they pursue.

Gist of Idea

People develop their characters through the activities they pursue

Source

Aristotle (Nicomachean Ethics [c.334 BCE], 1114a07)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Ethics (Nicomachean)', ed/tr. ThomsonJ A K/TredennickH [Penguin 1976], p.123


A Reaction

Correct. Hence the crucial thing for a good human life is the choice of activity when young. We can impose activity on the young, but the top aim of education is to teach people how to make good choices. ('Fat chance!' I hear you say..)

Related Idea

Idea 49 Character is revealed by the pleasures and pains people feel [Aristotle]