Golden Mean

[Study Topic] Comparison of Confucius and Aristotle's thoughts on the mean Pt. 1

Aristotle's concept of the "Golden Mean" (Greek: μεσότης, mesotes) is a central idea in his ethical philosophy, particularly in his work "Nicomachean Ethics." The Golden Mean refers to the desirable middle ground between two extremes, one of excess and the other of deficiency. According to Aristotle, moral virtue is achieved by maintaining this balance, which leads to a well-rounded and harmonious character.

Key Points of the Golden Mean:

1. Virtue as a Mean: Aristotle argues that every virtue lies between two vices: one of excess and one of deficiency. For example:

• Courage: The mean between recklessness (excess) and cowardice (deficiency).

• Temperance: The mean between self-indulgence (excess) and insensibility (deficiency).

• Generosity: The mean between wastefulness (excess) and stinginess (deficiency).

1. Context-Dependent: The appropriate mean is not the same for everyone. It depends on the individual and the specific circumstances. What might be moderate for one person could be excessive or deficient for another.

2. Rational Deliberation: Achieving the Golden Mean requires rational deliberation and practical wisdom (phronesis). It involves understanding the context, considering the consequences, and making balanced decisions.

3. Moral Development: Aristotle believes that developing virtue is a process that involves habituation. By practicing moderation and making virtuous choices consistently, individuals cultivate a virtuous character.

4. Eudaimonia: The ultimate goal of practicing the Golden Mean is to achieve eudaimonia, often translated as "flourishing" or "happiness." Living a balanced and virtuous life leads to true fulfillment and well-being.

Application

• Emotions and Actions: The Golden Mean applies to both emotions and actions. For instance, feeling the right amount of anger at the right time and in the right way is virtuous, as opposed to feeling no anger or excessive anger.

• Individual Differences: Since the mean is relative to the individual, it takes into account personal differences and situational factors. For example, what constitutes the right amount of food for an athlete might be different from that for a non-athlete.

Example:

Consider the virtue of honesty. The Golden Mean would be honesty as the balanced virtue:

• Excess: Brutal honesty, where one says whatever is on their mind without regard for others' feelings.

• Deficiency: Dishonesty, where one consistently lies or withholds the truth.

• Mean: Honesty, where one speaks the truth thoughtfully and considers the impact on others.
  

Conclusion:

Aristotle's concept of the Golden Mean is a guiding principle for ethical behavior and moral development. It encourages individuals to seek moderation and balance in their actions and emotions, leading to a virtuous and fulfilling life. This principle remains influential in contemporary discussions of ethics and character development.