Single Idea 2810

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / B. Value / 2. Values / i. Self-interest]

Full Idea

Selfishness is condemned, and justly, but selfishness is not simply to be fond of oneself, but to be excessively fond.

Gist of Idea

Selfishness is wrong not because it is self-love, but because it is excessive

Source

Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1263b03)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Sinclair,T.A. /Saunders,T. [Penguin 1992], p.115


A Reaction

Aristotle is one of the main defendents of the idea that self-concern is an important part of morality. Stay fit! Improve your character! The mean between self-hatred and narcissism.