Introduction
Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics is a seminal work in moral philosophy, offering a profound exploration of the virtues that constitute good character and the pursuit of the good life. Among the virtues discussed, decency (also translated as magnificence in some versions) stands out as a nuanced character trait. However, for this task, let’s consider the spirit of the instruction and focus on the virtue of decency, understood broadly as a quality related to an individual’s proper and honorable conduct.
Understanding Aristotelian Decency
Aristotle defines decency as the meaning concerning matters of honor and dishonor, between the vices of being shameless and overly bashful. This virtue is about the appropriate expression of shame or the lack thereof. While guilt is generally considered a feeling that restrains people from dishonorable conduct, Aristotle interestingly views it not as a virtue but as a valuable feeling to young people who live by their passions. Decency, however, is the virtue of the mature, who can act honorably, not out of fear of shame, but out of decency and self-respect (Aristotle 98).
In essence, decency is moderation in one’s sense of honor; it is the quality that allows an individual to determine when to feel shame and to what degree. A decent person would feel shame at the thought of committing an unjust or dishonorable act, but they would not be paralyzed by guilt to the point of inaction or shame in situations where it is not warranted. A decent person knows that some errors are forgivable and human, while others are not.
Aristotle’s decency is not merely about internal feelings but also about how one’s actions reflect on one’s character. It is associated with being honorable in one’s dealings and interactions, showing respect to oneself and others, and adhering to a certain standard of moral and social conduct. It is, therefore, an outward-looking virtue deeply concerned with the social fabric and how individuals contribute to the common good through their own sense of honor.
In explaining decency, it is essential to appreciate the Aristotelian context in which this virtue operates. Aristotle’s ethical framework is grounded in the “Golden Mean,” the idea that virtue lies between extremes of excess and deficiency. Decency is the balanced state where one is neither too concerned with public opinion to the detriment of one’s moral compass nor indifferent to societal norms that one becomes antisocial or disdainful of shared values.
Delving into the subtleties of decency reveals its intricate relationship with other virtues and societal expectations. A person of decency is aware of the importance of reputation and the impact of their actions on how others perceive them. Yet, this awareness is not born out of a desire for popularity or fear of ostracism but from a genuine understanding of the value of social harmony and respectability. In communicating this understanding to you, it is essential to highlight that Aristotle’s concept of decency is not a rigid rule but a flexible guideline for behavior that requires practical wisdom to apply in various situations. It is a dynamic virtue that demands continuous reflection and a deep understanding of the social context in which one lives.
Conclusion
To sum up, decency in the Aristotelian sense is a virtue of character that involves an appropriate attitude towards honor and dishonor, a balance between feeling too much and too little shame, and a guiding principle for honorable conduct in private and public life. It underscores the importance of self-respect and respect for others, helping to maintain the fabric of society through actions that reflect a well-considered sense of what is proper.
Work Cited
Aristotle. The Nicomachean Ethics. Harvard University Press, 2003.