La formula

Abstract

The author examines the internal meaning of the formula "ut inter bonos bene agier oportet et sine fraudatione" of the actio fiduciae. In particular, citing third and second century B.C. sources, he argues (confirming the findings of his recent research) that the qualification "vir bonus" underlying the words "inter bonos" indicates an ethical-behavioural perspective, not social status. He suggests a reading that would give the adverb "bene" (generally considered pleonastic with regard to the terms "inter bonos") an autonomous role. Finally, he shows that the sources do not justify the assertion that the meaning of the criterion "ut inter bonos" has changed over time as a consequence of an alleged transformation of the notion of vir bonus.