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Single Idea 61

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

Full Idea

Every science performs its function well only when it observes the mean.

Clarification

Here 'science' is the Greek word 'techné', also translated as 'skill'

Gist of Idea

Skills are only well performed if they observe the mean

Source

Aristotle (Nicomachean Ethics [c.334 BCE], 1106b09)

Book Ref

Aristotle: 'Ethics (Nicomachean)', ed/tr. ThomsonJ A K/TredennickH [Penguin 1976], p.100


A Reaction

Hm. Not sure what he has in mind. Most people aspire to perfection in their skills. The mean needs a continuum between two obvious extremes.