Mimesis
μίμησιςmih-MAY-sis
The act of imitation or representation, central to Aristotle's theory of art and learning. Beyond mere copying, mimesis describes how humans learn virtue by observing and emulating exemplary models, internalizing excellence through deliberate imitation until it becomes authentic character.
Modern Application
You become like those you study and surround yourself with—choose your models deliberately. Find leaders whose character you admire and observe not just their actions but the principles behind them. Through conscious emulation of excellence, you transform borrowed wisdom into your own authentic leadership presence.