Single Idea 2829

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

Full Idea

The law is the mean.

Gist of Idea

The law is the mean

Source

Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1287b04)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Sinclair,T.A. /Saunders,T. [Penguin 1992], p.227


A Reaction

He probably intends to say that the law should be the mean. Since virtue is always the mean (i.e. what is appropriate), then it is almost tautological (for him) that the law is the mean.

Related Idea

Idea 22556 Laws that match people's habits are more effective than mere written rules [Aristotle]