ABSTRACT
Peculiarly planned theory has always been subjected to the mockery of critics. It appears only too ridiculous that the seriousness of virtue should resolve itself into the triviality of a golden mean into a mediocrity. It is well known that Aristotle defines virtue as a mean between two extremes, which are both evils. Of the evils one is always too much, the other too little. For moral self-consciousness is to be named pride only in connection with great worth; in connection with slight worth it is just as naturally humility. Only real greatness of moral being is entitled to be proud. Liberality in regard to money is in fact finely characterized through the double contrast to penuriousness and extravagance—although Aristotle sees in the latter the lesser fault. With regard to mildness of temper a special merit lies in the view that not only easy excitability to anger but also complete incapacity to feel wrath is a moral defect.
