Aristotle’s quote, “There are some jobs in which it is impossible for a man to be virtuous,” suggests that certain professions or roles inherently contradict the principles of virtue and morality. In essence, it implies that some jobs may require an individual to act against their moral compass or ethical standards, thus making it impossible for them to maintain their virtue.

Aristotle’s conception of virtue is deeply rooted in his philosophy of ethics. He believed that virtue is a state of character concerned with choice, lying in a mean, which is relative to us, this being determined by a rational principle. Therefore, if a job requires one to consistently act outside this mean, it could be deemed impossible for one to be virtuous in that role.

In today’s world, this quote can be applied in various ways. For instance, consider roles that involve deception or harm to others, whether physical or emotional. A person employed in such a role may find it difficult to uphold virtues like honesty, empathy, or kindness. For example, a professional poker player might struggle with honesty because bluffing—an act of deception—is an integral part of the game. Similarly, a soldier might find it challenging to maintain kindness or empathy when their job requires them to harm or even kill others in the line of duty.

In terms of personal development, this quote could serve as a guide for choosing careers or roles that align with an individual’s personal values and ethical standards. It suggests that one should consider not just the financial or social aspects of a job, but also how the job’s requirements align with their moral principles. This could lead to a more fulfilling career and a more harmonious life, as one’s professional actions would not be in conflict with their personal values.

That said, it’s important to note that Aristotle’s perspective is not an absolute rule. Virtue, like many aspects of ethics and morality, can be subjective and context-dependent. What one person considers virtuous may not be the same for another. Furthermore, people can and do change over time, and so can their understanding of virtue. Therefore, while this quote offers a valuable perspective, it should be considered as part of a broader, nuanced conversation about ethics, morality, and personal development.