Meaning: The quote, "Thus you are just not because you give what is owed, but because you do what is appropriate to you as the highest good," by Anselm of Canterbury, delves into the philosophical concept of justice and morality. Anselm of Canterbury, also known as Saint Anselm, was an 11th-century Italian Benedictine monk, philosopher, and theologian who is often referred to as the founder of scholasticism.

At the heart of this quote is the idea that being just is not solely about fulfilling one's obligations or duties, but rather about acting in accordance with the highest moral good. Anselm is emphasizing that true justice is not merely about adhering to external standards or societal expectations, but rather about aligning one's actions with what is inherently good and virtuous.

When Anselm speaks of "giving what is owed," he is likely referring to the concept of retributive justice, which is based on the idea of giving each person their due based on their actions or contributions. This traditional understanding of justice focuses on the idea of fairness and proportionality in terms of rewards and punishments.

However, Anselm goes beyond this conventional view of justice by emphasizing that true justice is rooted in doing what is appropriate to oneself as the highest good. In other words, he is highlighting the importance of acting in accordance with one's own moral integrity and the pursuit of the highest moral good, rather than simply fulfilling external obligations.

Anselm's perspective aligns with the concept of virtue ethics, which places emphasis on the development of moral character and the cultivation of virtuous qualities. According to this ethical framework, being just is not merely a matter of following rules or fulfilling duties, but rather about embodying virtuous traits such as wisdom, courage, and compassion in one's actions.

Furthermore, Anselm's quote can be interpreted as emphasizing the internal motivation and intention behind one's actions. True justice, according to Anselm, is not about outward compliance with rules or expectations, but about the genuine desire to pursue the highest good and act in alignment with moral excellence.

In a broader theological context, Anselm's understanding of justice can also be linked to the Christian concept of imitating the moral character of God. In Christian theology, the highest good is often associated with the divine nature of God, and the pursuit of justice is seen as a reflection of God's own righteousness and moral perfection.

In conclusion, Anselm of Canterbury's quote encapsulates a profound insight into the nature of justice and morality. It challenges us to reexamine our understanding of justice, moving beyond mere adherence to external standards and obligations, and instead, focusing on the pursuit of the highest moral good and the cultivation of virtuous character. Anselm's perspective serves as a timeless reminder that true justice is rooted in the genuine pursuit of moral excellence and the alignment of one's actions with the highest good.