In Nicomachean Ethics, Book I, Chapter 13, Aristotle defines virtue as “a state of character concerned with choice, lying in a mean relative to us, this being determined by reason, as the prudent person would determine it.”

He goes on to say that virtue is “a mean between two vices, one of excess and one of deficiency.” For example, courage is the mean between cowardice and rashness, temperance is the mean between self-indulgence and insensibility, and so on.

Aristotle also distinguishes between two types of virtue: virtues of thought and virtues of character. Virtues of thought are those that involve the use of reason, such as wisdom, understanding, and prudence. Virtues of character are those that involve emotions and desires, such as courage, temperance, and justice.

The general relation between virtue and the soul, according to Aristotle, is that virtue is a state of the soul that enables us to act well. The soul is divided into two parts: the rational part and the non-rational part. The rational part is responsible for our thoughts and our ability to reason. The non-rational part is responsible for our emotions and our desires.

Virtues of thought are located in the rational part of the soul. They enable us to make good decisions and to act in accordance with reason. Virtues of character are located in the non-rational part of the soul. They enable us to control our emotions and desires and to act in accordance with what is good.

Aristotle’s distinction between virtues of thought and virtues of character is important because it helps us to understand the different ways in which we can become virtuous. Virtues of thought can be acquired through study and reasoning. Virtues of character, on the other hand, can only be acquired through practice and habituation.

For example, we can become wise by studying philosophy and by learning from the wise. We cannot become brave by simply reading about courage. We must practice being brave in the face of danger.

Aristotle’s conception of virtue has had a profound influence on Western thought. It is the foundation of many modern ethical theories, such as Kantianism and utilitarianism.

Here are some additional thoughts on Aristotle’s conception of virtue:

• Virtue is not simply a matter of following rules. It is a matter of developing good habits and dispositions.
• Virtue is not something that we are born with. It is something that we must acquire through practice and effort.
• Virtue is not always easy. It often requires us to go against our natural inclinations.
• Virtue is essential for a happy and fulfilling life.