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Single Idea 5228

[from 'Nicomachean Ethics' by Aristotle, in 25. Social Practice / F. Life Issues / 4. Suicide ]

Full Idea

It shows weakness of character to run away from hardships, and the suicide endures death not because it is a fine thing to do but in order to escape from suffering.

Gist of Idea

A suicide embraces death to run away from hardships, rather than because it is a fine deed

Source

Aristotle (Nicomachean Ethics [c.334 BCE], 1116a14)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Ethics (Nicomachean)', ed/tr. ThomsonJ A K/TredennickH [Penguin 1976], p.130


A Reaction

It is easy to construct a situation where suicide IS a fine deed. And when I put on a warm coat I am running away from hardships rather than pursuing fine deeds. He does have a point, though.