Reflection on

Chapter 4- Lesson 3 (Moral Virtue and Mesotes)

Practical wisdom identifies the right action as something in the middle of an action,
feeling, or passion. Someone who is morally upright and cares about doing the right thing in a
way that is neither excessive nor inadequate.

I've struggled with how to make decisions in my entire life. Does this mean that lists of
"good results" and "bad results," to be compared and contrasted, should be created and
compiled? Is there a set of rules to follow? Is there a way to be patient and not lose your temper?
On top of that, there's the question of how to decide whether or not it's okay just this once. The
fact that I don't all approach decisions about right and wrong in the same way is what makes
them so difficult for me. That's fine, in a way. It brings an unique blend of resources to my
decision making. Ethics is more than just what I like or dislike; it is more than rash opinion.
Let's not forget to consider the process of making a decision.

Ethical theory as developed by Aristotle describes how virtues manifest themselves in

society. Because some actions, no matter how well-intentioned, ultimately lead to crime, it is
necessary to elaborate on the belief that human actions and passions are aimed at bringing about
good in the world. As an example, killing is an action that lacks moderation and, therefore,
virtue. It is also difficult to categorize virtues based on human actions because it would lead to
confusion.