Book 6
1
The quality termed Consideration,The writer here strains the meaning of words by connecting under one sense (1) γνώμη, judgement in general or good judgement in particular, and its derivatives (2) εὐγνώμων, well-judging in the sense of considerate and kindly, and (3) συγγνώμη, literally judgement with or on the side of others, and hence, sympathy, lenience, forgiveness. in virtue of which men are said to be considerate, or to show consideration for others (forgiveness), is the faculty of judging correctly what is equitable. This is indicated by our saying that the equitable man is specially considerate for others (forgiving), and that it is equitable to show consideration for others (forgiveness) in certain cases; but consideration for others is that consideration which judges rightly what is equitable, judging rightly meaning judging what is truly equitable.
2
All these qualities, it is reasonable to say, refer to the same thing; indeed we attribute Considerateness, Understanding, Prudence, and Intelligence to the same persons when we say of people that they are old enough to show consideration and intelligence,i.e., have reached years of discretion; cf. 11.6 and 8.12.2. and are prudent and understanding persons. For all these faculties deal with ultimate and particular things; and a man has understanding and is considerate, or considerate for others, when he is a good judge of the matters in regard to which Prudence is displayedThis has been proved for understanding and the sensible man in chap. 10; it is extended to considerateness in the words that follow: considerateness judges correctly what is equitable, equity is an element in all virtuous conduct towards others, and all virtuous conduct is determined by Prudence.; because equitable actions are common to all good meni.e., the possessors of each of the moral virtues. in their behavior towards others,
