Book 4 / Chapter 5
Paragraph 2 - The Virtue of Good Temper
Explanation - Part By Part
"The man who is angry at the right things and with the right people, and, further, as he ought, when he ought, and as long as he ought, is praised."
This part emphasizes that getting angry isn't inherently bad; instead, what's important is when, why, and how someone experiences and expresses anger. Aristotle is essentially saying that anger is appropriate and even commendable if it arises for the right reasons, is directed toward the right people, and is expressed in a balanced and reasonable way. It’s about aligning your emotions with rational judgment and responding to situations in a way that’s fair and proportional. This kind of measured, thoughtful anger earns praise because it shows self-control and moral discernment.
"This will be the good-tempered man, then, since good temper is praised."
In this part, Aristotle is pointing out that someone who embodies what he describes as "good temper" is considered virtuous and admirable. Essentially, being good-tempered—balanced in how one handles anger—is a quality that society values and praises.
"For the good-tempered man tends to be unperturbed and not to be led by passion, but to be angry in the manner, at the things, and for the length of time, that the rule dictates;"
Aristotle is emphasizing that a person who is good-tempered doesn't let their emotions control their actions, particularly when it comes to anger. Instead of being swept away by passion, they display balance and self-control. When they do get angry, they do so for the right reasons, directed at the right targets, and in the right amount of intensity and duration, according to what is reasonable or appropriate in a given situation. Their anger aligns with what is rational and fair, not impulsive or excessive. Essentially, it's about being measured and wise in expressing emotions like anger.
"but he is thought to err rather in the direction of deficiency; for the good-tempered man is not revengeful, but rather tends to make allowances."
Here, Aristotle is saying that the good-tempered person—someone who handles anger appropriately—is generally more likely to lean toward a lack of anger rather than being overly angry. In other words, this person doesn't get caught up in holding grudges or seeking revenge. Instead, they are inclined to forgive, let things slide, or make allowances for others’ mistakes or shortcomings.
This inclination toward forgiveness or overlooking faults might be seen as a "flaw" in the sense that it could sometimes mean they are too soft or lenient, but overall, this balance toward gentleness is considered a virtue within reason. Aristotle emphasizes that this moderation—neither too quick to anger, nor completely passive—is key to having good character in how one manages emotional reactions.