Single Idea 27

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / D. Universals / 6. Platonic Forms / d. Forms critiques]

Full Idea

Nor will the Good be any more good by being eternal, if a long-lasting white thing is no whiter than an ephemeral one.

Gist of Idea

Eternal white is no whiter than temporary white, and it is the same with goodness

Source

Aristotle (Nicomachean Ethics [c.334 BCE], 1096b05)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Ethics (Nicomachean)', ed/tr. ThomsonJ A K/TredennickH [Penguin 1976], p.70


A Reaction

A powerful point, made with a hint of sarcasm. You can't add extra Form of White to increase the whiteness of your paint. And the paint is no whiter because it endures for years.