reas a process is complete at no
moment unless it be that of its termination. It is the completion of its
appropriate activity; not in the sense that a habit makes the activity
complete, but as its accompaniment and complement. Continuous it is not,
just as the activity is not. It is not the complete life, but is
inseparable from it. Pleasures, however, differ specifically and in
value, as do the qualities with whose activities they are associated.
The pleasures proper to men are those associated with the activities
proper to man as man, those shared with other animals being so only in a
less degree.

It remains to recapitulate the sum of our conclusions regarding Happiness.
It is not a habit, but lies in the habitual activities--desirable in
and for themselves not as means--exercised deliberately, excluding mere
amusement. Man's highest faculty being intelligence, its activity is his
highest happiness--contemplation--constant, sufficient, and sought not
as a means, but as an end.

This kind of happiness belongs to the gods also. Exclusively human, but
below the other, is the fulfilment of the moral life, conditioned by
human society, and more affected by environments and material wants. For
contemplative activity, the barest material needs suffice. But this does
not of itself induce the moral life, being apart from conduct. To induce
morality, not only knowledge, but the right habit of action--which does
not follow from knowledge and may be implanted without it--is absolutely
necessary. Compulsion may successfully establish the habit where
argument might fail. Compulsion, therefore, is the proper course for the
State to take.

* * * * *

MARCUS AURELIUS

HIS DISCOURSES WITH HIMSELF

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, Roman emperor and Stoic
philosopher, was born on April 20, 121 A.D. Having been
adopted by Antoninus Pius, whose daughter Faustina he married,
he succeeded him as emperor in 161, but freely shared the
imperial throne with Lucius Verus, who also had been adopted
by Pius. Marcus Aurelius reigned until his death, on March 17,
180, in almost uninterrupted conflict with rebellious
provinces, and often heavily burdened with the internal
troubles of Rome. But the serenity of this august mind, and
his constancy to wisdom, virtue and religion, were never
shaken. For magnanimity, fidelity, resignation, fortitude and
m