Book 4 / Chapter 7
Paragraph 4 - The Virtue of Modesty and Truthfulness
Explanation - Part By Part
"Mock-modest people, who understate things, seem more attractive in character; for they are thought to speak not for gain but to avoid parade; and here too it is qualities which bring reputation that they disclaim, as Socrates used to do."
Aristotle is talking about people who practice mock modesty, meaning they downplay or understate their abilities or virtues. These people often seem more likable and admirable because it looks like they aren’t doing it to gain something (like recognition or praise) but to avoid showing off or making a spectacle of themselves. They deny or downplay qualities that would typically bring them respect or a good reputation—much like Socrates, who was known for claiming he knew nothing, even though he was widely recognized as wise. This modesty, whether genuine or feigned, can make a person appear modest and grounded.
"Those who disclaim trifling and obvious qualities are called humbugs and are more contemptible; and sometimes this seems to be boastfulness, like the Spartan dress; for both excess and great deficiency are boastful."
Aristotle notes that people who deny or downplay minor, obvious traits about themselves—what we might call "humbugs"—are seen as more ridiculous or contemptible. They appear insincere because they're making an odd display of modesty about things that really don't require it. He even suggests that this exaggerated modesty might sometimes resemble a form of boastfulness, as it still draws attention to itself, similar to the Spartans' famously simple dress. In this example, even extreme simplicity or understatement can end up being another way of showing off, whether intentionally or not. Both going overboard in exaggeration and overdoing modesty, Aristotle observes, are forms of insincerity and self-portrayal disconnected from truth.
"But those who use understatement with moderation and understate about matters that do not very much force themselves on our notice seem attractive."
Aristotle tells us that people who modestly downplay aspects of themselves, but do so in a balanced way and about minor or less obvious qualities, tend to be seen as appealing or likable. Their humility feels genuine, as it doesn’t seem forced or exaggerated. This moderation in understatement, where it doesn’t feel unnatural or attention-seeking, strikes the right balance and aligns with what we respect in someone's character.
"And it is the boaster that seems to be opposed to the truthful man; for he is the worse character."
Aristotle argues here that the boaster (someone who exaggerates qualities they don't possess or fabricates entirely) stands in direct opposition to the truthful person. The truthful person, by nature, values honesty and is aligned with reality, while the boaster distorts truth, often for personal gain or attention. Aristotle considers the boaster to be morally inferior because their actions betray a disregard for truth, integrity, and often the trust of others. This behavior reflects a deeper flaw in character compared to someone who strives to be truthful. In essence, the boaster prioritizes personal benefit over truth, while the truthful individual respects and adheres to honesty as a guiding principle.