In his timeless wisdom, Aristotle emphasizes the superior valor of those who conquer their innermost urges over those who triumph over external adversaries. The essence of bravery, Aristotle contends, lies not merely in vanquishing foes on the battlefield, but in mastering the tumultuous terrain of one’s own desires. This profound insight underscores the profound challenge inherent in self-discipline and self-mastery. To resist the allure of temptation demands a courage that transcends physical confrontation, delving into the depths of one’s psyche. While prevailing over external threats showcases strength and prowess, the true test of character lies in the ability to navigate the labyrinth of human cravings and impulses. Such individuals demonstrate a formidable resolve, fortified by introspection and discipline. By prioritizing the conquest of their own inclinations, they exemplify a higher form of bravery—one that is grounded in the triumph of the spirit over the allure of indulgence.
Tag: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.
Decoding the Question:
- In Introduction, try to give the context behind the given quotes/statements.
- In Body, elaborate more on the given quotes and its relevance in the contemporary era.
- In Conclusion, try to provide suggestions and conclude with the above points.
Answers:
According to the given quote by Aristotle, the greatest enemy for man is desire as it sparks in its wake attendant ills. For instance, when desire is thwarted, it gives rise to anger and this upsets the balance in one’s nature. It tempts humans to want for more and more to the extent of forgetting Him.
Biggest enemy for Man:
- Holy scriptures like Gita and Buddhism also say that desire is the biggest enemy for man. According to Gita, never ending desires is the main enemy of the human being. One has to defeat and conquer this enemy. Desires along with other enemies such as anger, greed, pride or ego, attachment or delusion and jealousy attack the mind and try to distract the mind away from contemplation. Thus, the enemy called Desire is internal and the war is also internal.
- According to Buddhism, Desire and wrath that spring from the natural property of passion have an insatiable appetite for sensual pleasure and are the most sinful desire and wrath are the complements of attachment and repugnance. Human beings are subject to desires and cravings, but even if they are able to satisfy these desires, the satisfaction is only temporary. Pleasure does not last; or if it does, it becomes monotonous.
- Relevance in Contemporary world: The desire of man from technological advancement to conquer the world led to industrial revolution, Industrialisation and setting up colonies on others territory. Repercussions of the desire gave birth to many ‘Isms’ like factions in developed and developing countries, Imperialism, Racism, Separatism and many more. Their repercussions can be seen on climate and environment too.
Aristotle accepts that desire cannot be attributed for all purposive movement towards a goal. knowledge along with reason and desire work together to determine what is a good object of desire. In this regard, the Eightfold Path in Buddhist literature suggests to overcome the desire. The Middle path given by Buddha avoids extremity in life and overcomes the extremities of desire.
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