We have next to consider the formal definition of virtue.
Happiness comes from theperfect practice of virtue.
Even if we could suppose the citizen body to be virtuous, without each of them being so, yet the latter would be better, for in the virtue of each the virtue of all is involved.
We become just by the practice of just actions, self-controlled by exercising self-control, and courageous by performing acts of courage.
The man who is truly good and wise will bear with dignity whatever fortune sends, and will always make the best of his circumstances.
To give away money is an easy matter and in any man's power. But to decide to whom to give it and how large and when, and for what purpose and how, is neither in every man's power nor an easy matter.
Character is that which reveals moral purpose, exposing the class of things a man chooses and avoids.
There are, then, three states of mind ... two vices--that of excess, and that of defect; and one virtue--the mean; and all these are in a certain sense opposed to one another; for the extremes are not only opposed to the mean, but also to one another; and the mean is opposed to the extremes.
To know what virtue is is not enough; we must endeavor to possess and to practice it, or in some other manner actually ourselves to become good.
No one who desires to become good will become good unless he does good things.
