Pagina 666 de 734

[26] In spite of theory, we know as a matter of fact that

external circumstances are necessary to complete the idea of

Happiness not that Happiness is capable of addition, but that

when we assert it to be identical with virtuous action we must

understand that it is to have a fair field; in fact, the other

side of [Greek: bios teleios].

[27] It is remarkable how Aristotle here again shelves what he

considers an unpractical question. If Happiness were really a

direct gift from Heaven, independently of human conduct, all

motive to self-discipline and moral improvement would vanish He

shows therefore that it is no depreciation of the value of

Happiness to suppose it to come partly at least from ourselves,

and he then goes on with other reasons why we should think with

him.

[28] This term is important, what has been maimed was once

perfect; he does not contemplate as possible the case of a man

being born incapable of virtue, and so of happiness.

[29] [Greek] Plato. Phaedon. xlvi.