"The function of vice is to keep virtue within reasonable bounds"

This quote by Samuel Butler recommends that vice, or immoral habits, serves a purpose in society. It suggests that without vice, virtue, or ethical behavior, would end up being extreme and out of control. To put it simply, vice acts as a counterbalance to virtue, keeping it in check and avoiding it from becoming too severe. This concept is similar to the principle of yin and yang, where two opposing forces are necessary to preserve balance.

The quote likewise indicates that vice is necessary for society to function appropriately. Without it, virtue would become too extreme and lead to turmoil. This is since virtue, when required to the severe, can cause a lack of tolerance and an inability to accept various point of views. Vice, on the other hand, can assist to keep virtue in check and guarantee that it is not taken too far.

In general, this quote by Samuel Butler recommends that vice is required for society to operate correctly. It serves as a counterbalance to virtue, keeping it in check and preventing it from ending up being too extreme. By doing so, it assists to make sure that society remains well balanced and tolerant of different viewpoints.