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Single Idea 22400

[from 'Virtues and Vices' by Philippa Foot, in 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 3. Virtues / d. Courage ]

Full Idea

The fears that count against a man's courage are those that we think he should overcome, and among them, in a special class, those that reflect the fact that he values his safety too much.

Gist of Idea

Courage overcomes the fears which should be overcome, and doesn't overvalue personal safety

Source

Philippa Foot (Virtues and Vices [1978], II)

Book Reference

Foot,Philippa: 'Virtues and Vices' [Blackwell 1981], p.12


A Reaction

I think that sentence tells us more accurately what courage is than anything in Aristotle's discussion. Ask yourself which of your fears really ought to be overcome, and particularly beware of over-valuing your own safety. But stay safe if you can!