Quotes With Meaning
A purposeless virtue is a contradiction in terms. Virtue, like harmony, cannot exist alone; a virtue must lead to harmony between one creature and another. To be good for nothing is just that. If a virtue has been thought a virtue long enough, it must be assumed to have practical justification - though the very longevity that proves its practicality may obscure it. That seems to be what happened with the idea of fidelity...
A purposeless virtue is a contradiction in terms. Virtue, like harmony, cannot exist alone; a virtue must lead to harmony between one creature and another. To be good for nothing is just that. If a virtue has been thought a virtue long enough, it must be assumed to have practical justification - though the very longevity that proves its practicality may obscure it. That seems to be what happened with the idea of fidelity...
This quote emphasizes that virtue must serve a purpose beyond itself to be meaningful. Wendell Berry argues that true virtue fosters harmony between individuals, suggesting that being virtuous without a practical outcome is futile. He points out that the concept of fidelity, often seen as a long-standing virtue, may have lost its clear justification over time. If a virtue does not contribute to the well-being of others, it loses its significance. This perspective encourages a mindset that values virtues like fidelity not just for their historical importance, but for their ability to promote genuine connections and understanding in our lives. Ultimately, a virtue must be actionable and meaningful to ensure it supports growth and freedom in relationships.