On Virtue and Vice

Plutarch. Plutarchi Chaeronensis Moralia, Vol I. Vernardakēs, Grēgorios N., editor. Leipzig: Teubner, 1888.

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This philosophical work explores the impact of virtue and vice on the happiness of the human soul. The discussion begins with the premise that external goods, such as wealth and fame, cannot bring true happiness to the soul on their own. The author points out that if vice (*kakia*) resides within the soul, any amount of wealth or luxury will instead turn into a source of discomfort and misery. In contrast, it is explained that only virtue (*arete*) and reason (*logos*) can bestow true inner peace and self-sufficiency upon a person. Ultimately, the work concludes that instead of relying on external circumstances, cultivating one's inner soul through virtue is the sole path to genuine happiness.