Kirk Douglas: 'Virtue is not photogenic. What is it to be a nice guy? To be nothing, that's what. A big fat zero with a smile for everybody.'

Virtue is not photogenic. What is it to be a nice guy? To be nothing, that's what. A big fat zero with a smile for everybody.

In his quote, Kirk Douglas, the iconic actor and philanthropist, sheds light on the often overlooked aspect of virtue. He asserts that virtue is not something that can be captured visually, that it does not possess the glamour or allure that is often associated with physical beauty. According to Douglas, being a "nice guy" or having virtuous qualities may not result in the same level of attention or admiration as those with a more attractive appearance. He goes on to suggest that being a good person is often downplayed or considered inconsequential, as if it equates to being a "big fat zero" in the eyes of society. However, delving deeper into this quote, we can unearth a profound philosophical concept that challenges the traditional notions of attractiveness and suggests a more nuanced perspective on true virtue.In essence, Kirk Douglas points out the societal bias towards external appearances and the superficiality that often comes with it. In a society obsessed with physical beauty and material success, the quiet virtues such as kindness, integrity, and empathy can sometimes be overshadowed and underappreciated. It is this aspect that Douglas refers to as being "unphotogenic." Unlike physical attractiveness, virtue cannot be captured in a photograph or easily recognized at first glance. It is an intangible quality that resides within a person's character and informs their actions and interactions.To explore this concept further, let us consider the ancient philosophical concept of eudaimonia, often translated as "flourishing" or "well-being." In Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics, he delves into the idea of eudaimonia as the ultimate end or goal of human life. Eudaimonia is not achieved through material wealth, power, or physical appearance, but rather through the cultivation of virtues and the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling life.Drawing a parallel between Douglas's quote and Aristotle's notion of eudaimonia brings forth an interesting comparison. Both perspectives argue that true virtue and personal fulfillment go beyond superficialities and outward appearances. Virtue, just like eudaimonia, cannot be reduced to something as shallow as a photograph or a surface-level judgment. Instead, they emphasize the importance of inner character, moral integrity, and the pursuit of a more meaningful existence.In a society heavily influenced by visual media and the constant search for external validation, it can be easy to dismiss the significance of virtue. However, as we delve into the depths of our humanity and explore what truly brings us joy and fulfillment, we begin to appreciate the transformative power of virtues such as compassion, honesty, and gratitude. They have the potential to enrich our lives in ways that go beyond mere external aesthetics.So, while Kirk Douglas's quote may initially seem like a lamentation of the overlooked nature of virtue, it actually serves as a catalyst for deeper introspection. By juxtaposing it with the philosophical concept of eudaimonia, we are reminded that true greatness lies not in a superficial smile worn by a "nice guy," but in the genuine character, strength, and moral fiber that resides within each individual. In a world where appearances are given undue importance, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate the virtues that have the power to inspire and uplift both ourselves and those around us.