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Neither by nature, then, nor contrary to nature do the virtues arise in us; rather we are adapted by nature to receive them, and are made perfect by habit.
Aristotle
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Virtues are not innate nor imposed from outside; they develop through our natural capacity and habitual practice.

In this quote, Aristotle emphasizes that virtues are not inherent traits nor artificially instilled in us; instead, they emerge from our natural predisposition and are refined through consistent practice and habit. This understanding asserts that while we may have the potential to embody virtues, it is our daily actions and habits that shape and perfect these qualities over time.

Themes

VirtueNatureHabitPracticeCharacter

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about personal development, one might state: 'Remember, virtues are cultivated through your daily habits, as Aristotle taught us.'

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The whole is more than the sum of its parts.
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