Final answer:
Aristotle's definition of virtue can be exemplified by bravery, which is the mean between cowardice and rashness. Virtues are character traits that lead to eudaimonia, developed through deliberate actions and habituation. Virtuous actions stem from rational deliberation and the desire to achieve one's best state of character.
Step-by-step explanation:
To illustrate Aristotle's definition of virtue, we can examine the virtue of bravery. Bravery, according to Aristotle, is about finding the mean between two extremes: cowardice and rashness. Cowardice is characterized by excessive fear and insufficient confidence, while rashness represents insufficient fear and excessive confidence.
The virtue of bravery manifests as the right amount of fear and confidence, enabling one to face dangers appropriately. Virtues are habits of character that help us decide on the preferable action in a given situation.
Developing virtue centers around the cultivation of such character traits, aligning with the 'golden mean'—not too much and not too little of a given quality—which leads to human flourishing or eudaimonia. Therefore, in pursuit of eudaimonia, one must engage in intentional, directed self-development to cultivate virtues and achieve excellent character.
An individual becomes virtuous not just by routinely performing virtuous acts, but by knowing why those acts are right, choosing them deliberately, and doing so from a consistent and firm character disposition. This process involves rational reflection and deliberation, demonstrating practical wisdom, and embodying character excellence through habitual correct actions.