Book 10 / Chapter 9
Paragraph 3 - The Importance of Laws in Virtue Training
Explanation - Part By Part
"But it is difficult to get from youth up a right training for virtue if one has not been brought up under right laws; for to live temperately and hardily is not pleasant to most people, especially when they are young."
Aristotle is emphasizing that instilling virtue from a young age is especially challenging without proper guidance under a framework of good laws. The reason for this difficulty lies in the fact that living virtuously—being self-disciplined, moderate, and resilient—is often not naturally appealing, particularly to young people. Youths are generally more driven by impulses, pleasures, and comforts, so without structured guidance, their natural inclinations may not align with the development of virtuous habits.
"For this reason their nurture and occupations should be fixed by law; for they will not be painful when they have become customary."
Aristotle is arguing that young people need a structured and disciplined upbringing, and this structure should be enforced by laws. Why? Because forming good habits early in life is crucial, even though these habits might seem unpleasant or demanding at first. Over time, however, what initially feels burdensome becomes second nature and no longer feels painful—it simply becomes part of who they are. Essentially, Aristotle is highlighting the power of consistent practice and routine to shape character, and he sees law as a tool to guide that process for the betterment of individuals and society.
"But it is surely not enough that when they are young they should get the right nurture and attention; since they must, even when they are grown up, practise and be habituated to them, we shall need laws for this as well, and generally speaking to cover the whole of life;"
Aristotle is emphasizing that raising children with proper values and moral habits during their early years is important, but it is not sufficient on its own. People don't magically remain virtuous just because they were trained well as kids; their moral education and habits need to continue into adulthood. For this reason, Aristotle argues that society should have laws in place that guide people toward living virtuously throughout their entire lives. These laws serve as a framework to reinforce good habits and ensure that people stay on the right path, even after their youthful upbringing is over.
"for most people obey necessity rather than argument, and punishments rather than the sense of what is noble."
Aristotle is pointing out a fundamental aspect of human nature: most people are more likely to act correctly out of necessity or fear of punishment rather than from a deep understanding or appreciation of what is morally good (the noble). This means that, for most individuals, the motivation to do the right thing doesn’t come from an innate love for virtue but from external pressures—whether those pressures are laws, societal expectations, or consequences.
This reflects a rather pragmatic view of human behavior: while some might be inspired by reason or a sense of moral beauty, the majority aren't naturally inclined to follow what is right just because it is right. Therefore, systems (like laws or rules) need to be in place to enforce ethical habits, guiding people toward virtuous behavior even if their internal motivations are lacking.