The virtue of temperance

#2 Virtue 

Temperance 

Temperance is considered the second most important virtue in Aristotle's philosophy. It represents the ability to exercise self-control and make decisions based on what is best for oneself. Etymologically, the term "temperance" originates from the Latin word temperantia, which means moderation. Similarly, in ancient Greek, the equivalent term is ἐγκράτεια (enkrateia), signifying the capacity of a person to restrain themselves from harmful habits. Despite originating from different languages, both terms carry the same essential meaning: the virtue of moderation and self-restraint.

The second labor of Hercules symbolizes the struggle to achieve temperance. In this labor, Hercules faced the Lernaean Hydra, a monstrous creature with nine heads that no one else could defeat. Each time a head was cut off, two more would grow in its place, symbolizing the endless nature of human desires and urges. To overcome this, Hercules used fire to cauterize the neck after severing each head, preventing new ones from growing. The fire symbolizes the purifying force of reason and self-discipline, which are essential tools for mastering one's impulses. By defeating the Hydra, Hercules demonstrates how temperance requires not just strength, but also wisdom and the ability to transform destructive forces into tools of self-control.

Today's world is overwhelmed with distractions and the constant promotion of endless desires. The only way to protect ourselves from this chaos is by limiting distractions and curbing these desires through the purifying forces of reason and self-discipline. By cultivating these virtues, we can improve ourselves as individuals and, in turn, lay the foundation for meaningful and impactful change in Europe.

-Manos