Aristotle’s theory of virtue and character development

11/03/2025 7 min Episodio 41
Aristotle’s theory of virtue and character development

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Episode Synopsis

In contrast to thinkers preaching altruism and self-sacrifice, the theory of virtue developed by Aristotle (384-322 BC) aims at the achievement of happiness. John Vespasian explains that Aristotle regarded character development as a tool for facilitating happiness. Aristotle wrote two treatises presenting his theory of virtue and character development, namely, the “Nicomachean Ethics” and the “Eudemian Ethics.” He wrote or dictated those two works in the years between 335 BC and 321 BC, while he was teaching at the Lyceum, the school he had opened in Athens. According to Aristotle, the practise of virtues (which he had defined as habits that lead to achievement and happiness) helps not only the individual, but also society as a whole. Here is the link to the original article: https://johnvespasian.com/aristotles-theory-of-virtue-and-character-development/