Meaning: This quote by Edgar Burroghs delves into the complex relationship between desire and virtue. It suggests that desire is a fundamental element in the construction of virtue, and that the subjective nature of desire makes it difficult to definitively categorize the outcomes as either vice or virtue. This quote invites contemplation on the nature of desires, their influence on individual actions, and the ambiguous distinction between vice and virtue.

Desire serves as a powerful motivator that drives individuals to pursue certain goals and ideals. It is often associated with ambition, aspiration, and longing for something. In the context of virtue, desire can be seen as the impetus for individuals to act in accordance with moral and ethical principles. Without desire, there would be no impetus for individuals to strive for virtuous behavior. This notion aligns with the understanding that virtue is not merely a passive state of being, but an active pursuit guided by the desires for goodness, justice, and moral excellence.

The quote also acknowledges the diversity of human desires, highlighting the subjective nature of individual wants and needs. What one person desires, another may not, and this disparity in desires contributes to the complexity of defining virtue and vice. The diversity of desires across individuals raises the question of whether the outcomes of these desires should be unequivocally labeled as vice or virtue. This ambiguity challenges the conventional notion of a clear-cut dichotomy between good and bad, virtuous and vicious, and invites a more nuanced understanding of human actions and intentions.

Furthermore, the quote implies that the moral evaluation of an individual's actions cannot be solely determined by the presence of desire. It suggests that the origins and intentions behind one's desires are crucial in discerning whether the resulting outcomes are virtuous or vice-ridden. This aligns with ethical theories that emphasize the importance of intention and the moral character of the agent in evaluating the ethical nature of an action.

The philosophical inquiry prompted by this quote delves into the intricacies of human nature, ethics, and the complexity of moral judgment. It invites contemplation on the interplay between desire and virtue, challenging the oversimplified notions of morality and ethical conduct. The quote encourages individuals to critically examine the motivations behind their desires and actions, as well as to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of virtue and vice.

In conclusion, Edgar Burroghs' quote stimulates profound reflection on the intricate relationship between desire and virtue. It underscores the indispensable role of desire in shaping virtuous behavior while highlighting the subjective and diverse nature of individual desires. The quote also challenges the binary categorization of actions as solely vice or virtue, prompting a more nuanced understanding of morality and ethical conduct. Overall, this quote serves as a thought-provoking exploration of human desires, moral complexity, and the multifaceted nature of virtue and vice.