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Single Idea 5876

[from 'Eudemian Ethics' by Aristotle, in 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 1. Virtue Theory / a. Nature of virtue ]

Full Idea

Virtue is different from continence.

Clarification

'Continence' is the Greek word 'enkrateia', which literally means 'controlled'

Gist of Idea

Virtue is different from continence

Source

Aristotle (Eudemian Ethics [c.333 BCE], 1227b17)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Eudemian Ethics I,II and VIII', ed/tr. Woods,Michael [OUP 1992], p.33


A Reaction

Basic to Aristotle - in that continence leads to right action, but that is not enough for virtue, which requires inner harmony, reason, and pleasure in doing what is right. Hence Aristotle is quite distinct from deontological or consequentialist views.