Final answer:
A moral virtue must be practiced habitually to develop into a personal virtue, aligning with Aristotle's notion that virtues are acquired by performing repeated virtuous acts, and the character-centered approach of virtue ethics.
Step-by-step explanation:
A moral virtue as a trait of character should be done habitually in order to become a personal virtue. Aristotle proposes that moral virtue arises from habit, indicating that good character traits are developed through consistent action and practice. The passage from Book II of Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics suggests that just as we learn to exercise our senses, we similarly acquire virtues by regularly performing virtuous acts, such as justice by doing just acts, and bravery by doing brave acts.
This concept aligns with the broader framework of virtue ethics, which is a character-centered approach to morality. It emphasizes the importance of habitually practicing good behaviors to cultivate strong virtues within ourselves. These virtues, when properly aligned with reason and reflection, contribute to the development of excellent character and moral conduct.
Moreover, individuals are encouraged to reflect on and deliberate their choices to ensure that their actions are virtuous, knowing why they chose them, and acting from a firm and consistent character state. True virtue is the balance between deficiency and excess, guiding us towards becoming good people and good citizens.