Final answer:
To be virtuous, one must engage in deliberate practice and habituation of right actions. The balance of virtues lies in the mean between excess and deficiency, and understanding social relationships plays a critical role in becoming virtuous. Continual development and reflection on one's own virtues and actions lead to moral growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find out how to be virtuous, one must engage in reflective and deliberate practice. According to Aristotle, becoming virtuous starts with potentiality, much like the senses, but it is through the act of doing that we exhibit virtuous activity. The virtues, therefore, are acquired by exercising them, drawing a parallel to developing skills in the arts. For instance, by consistently performing acts of bravery, one becomes brave.
The Role of Habit in Virtue
Aristotle asserted that we are made perfect by habit. Through habitual right actions, individuals develop dispositions that improve their capacity to choose the correct action, supported by reason, in a variety of situations. Habituation plays a crucial role, allowing us to gain experience and recognize what's right through consistent practice.
The Balance of Virtues
A virtuous character finds the balance between deficiency and excess. This balance, known as the mean or intermediate state, is where one aligns their actions and feelings to be well-off in relation to them. Political philosophers have identified traits like bravery, integrity, and kindness as virtue sources, exploring their limits to define a good person and citizen.
Relational Aspects of Virtue
An important relational aspect of virtue involves understanding the complex practices and relationships in social life. The awareness of how we relate to others and our social roles is essential for acting virtuously. Acknowledging this 'human dance' is key to growing in social virtue.