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Single Idea 5240

[from 'Nicomachean Ethics' by Aristotle, in 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 3. Virtues / c. Justice ]

Full Idea

The word 'unjust' is considered to describe both one who breaks the law and one who takes advantage of another, i.e. acts unfairly.

Gist of Idea

The word 'unjust' describes law-breaking and exploitation

Source

Aristotle (Nicomachean Ethics [c.334 BCE], 1129a32)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Ethics (Nicomachean)', ed/tr. ThomsonJ A K/TredennickH [Penguin 1976], p.172


A Reaction

Roughly, injustice is bad dealings with fellow citizens. We have 'distributive justice', and justice in keeping contracts. Our central meaning, of giving each citizen what they deserve, doesn't seem to be here.