Virtue of Character

Aristotle states,

the virtues of character are the various ways in which the non-rational elements cooperate with reason, so that human beings fulfill their function well and in accordance with complete virtue. (Aristotle XVII)

Virtue of character results from habit. We are not born with the virtues of character, It is not a birth given right for us humans. Hence, we must strive to acquire them throughout our lives. Virtue cannot arise in us neither by nature nor against nature. We are able to acquire them ourselves by putting in the handwork to be able to find them in.

An example of a virtue of character would be intelligence. We are not born intelligent. We don't just get to take a pill that makes us smart, or drink something that will instantly turn us into someone very intelligent. instead, we must work towards becoming intelligent. What are some ways to become intelligent? Well, by going to school that is taking a huge step to achieving this virtue of character. Reading books, studying, listening to people who are intelligent and have a lot of wisdom to share with us and taking it all learn is what we can do in order to become intelligent.

Aristotle states that,

"The virtue of eyes, for instance, makes the eyes and their functioning excellent, because it makes us see well; and similarly, the virtue of a horse makes the horse excellent, and thereby good at galloping, at carrying its rider, and at standing steady in the face of the enemy." (Aristotle 24)

Human beings have the capability to be able to achieve anything they set their mind to, only if they are will to put in the blood, the sweat and the tears into it. So in order to achieve any virtues of character one must ask themselves if they are ready and willing to put in the hard work that comes with achieving these virtues.