Question

Which of the following statements is False in context of Aristotle's theory of virtues?

• A. Virtues are dispositions
• B. Virtues are innate
• C. Virtues are governed by Principle of Golden Mean
• D. Virtues are divided into moral and intellectual

Hint:

In Aristotle's ethics, virtues are not innate. They are developed by habit and guided by the Golden Mean.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept:
Aristotle's theory of virtue is an important part of his ethical philosophy. According to Aristotle, virtue is not something with which a person is born in a fully developed form. Rather, virtues are developed through habit, training, practice and rational choice.

Step 1: Understand Aristotle's meaning of virtue.
For Aristotle, virtue is a stable quality of character. It is a disposition to act in the right way, at the right time, toward the right person, for the right reason. So, the statement: \[ \text{Virtues are dispositions} \] is correct.

Step 2: Understand the Principle of Golden Mean.
Aristotle says that moral virtue lies between two extremes. One extreme is excess and the other extreme is deficiency. For example: \[ \text{Courage} = \text{mean between cowardice and rashness} \] So, virtues are governed by the Golden Mean. Thus, option (C) is correct.

Step 3: Understand classification of virtues.
Aristotle divided virtues into: \[ \text{Moral virtues} \] and \[ \text{Intellectual virtues} \] Moral virtues are developed by habit, while intellectual virtues are developed by teaching and learning. So, option (D) is also correct.

Step 4: Identify the false statement.
The statement: \[ \text{Virtues are innate} \] is false because Aristotle does not believe that virtues are naturally present in a complete form from birth. They are acquired through repeated right actions. Hence, the false statement is: \[ \boxed{\text{Virtues are innate}} \]