Two classes ago we discussed the concept presented by Aristotle of Sophrosyne. We discussed that this word has the capability of having multiple definitions; like "self control", "temperance", and "chastity." We established in class that for the sake of this argument it means healthy mindedness. What we meant by this was that someone no longer is tempted by temptation. Through balance, they are able to fight the urge to give in to temptation.
When considering this, I came up with my own example of this...
Today in the dinning hall, I was confronted with temptation. I gave up on eating all foods that are fried or cooked in grease. I am doing this to become a healthier person. However, a question arises with this... I not eating these types of food and fighting the urge to eat them, am I becoming one with sophrosyne or am I just avoiding the problem? Should I eat these foods in moderation then?
I would argue that sophrosyne, in your example meaning self-control and restraint, probably is not effective in the long term. If you are doing something because you are forcing yourself to, and not because you want to, then it most likely wont last forever. I think that Kant would say if it is truly the right thing to do, then you will want to do it; you wont have to force yourself.
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