Single Idea 7359

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / f. The Mean]

Full Idea

Excess and deficiency are equally at fault.

Gist of Idea

Excess and deficiency are equally at fault

Source

Kongzi (Confucius) (The Analects (Lunyu) [c.511 BCE], XI.16)

Book Reference

Confucius: 'The Sayings of Confucius', ed/tr. Ware,James R. [Mentor 1955], p.72


A Reaction

This is the sort of wisdom we admire in Aristotle (and in any sensible person), but it may also be the deepest motto of conservatism, and it is a long way from romantic philosophy, and the clarion call of Nietzsche to greater excitement in life.