Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics Quote:β€œThe courageous endure death in war most nobly, facing the greatest terror.”​

Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics Quote:β€œThe courageous endure death in war most nobly, facing the greatest terror.”​

β€œThe courageous endure death in war most nobly, facing the greatest terror.”​
β€” Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book III, Chapter 6
(Translated by W.D. Ross)

Big Idea

Modern courage is like a firefighter’s gear πŸš’:

  • Reckless = Charge into flames without training β†’ Harm yourself & others.
  • Timid = Freeze outside burning building β†’ Lives lost.
  • True Valor = Strategically rescue with equipment β†’ Save families & survive.

​Real-Life Scenarios

πŸ₯ ER Night Shift

β†’ Noble: Treat violent patient despite risk β†’ Contract COVID but save life.
β†’ Fearful: Avoid contagious cases β†’ Patient dies, license revoked.

🏑 Domestic Crisis

β†’ Valor: Intervene in neighbor’s abuse β†’ Broken nose but stop tragedy.
β†’ Passive: “Not my business” call β†’ Child protective services case.

πŸ’Ό Corporate Whistleblowing

β†’ Courage: Expose accounting fraud β†’ Career over but prevent bankruptcy.
β†’ Silent: Hide evidence β†’ Company collapses, jail time.


​What You Can Do

  1. ​The “Helmet Test”
    Before acting brave, ask:
    • “Am I wearing metaphorical ​helmet (preparation) and ​oxygen tank (support)?”
  2. ​Courage Calculator
    Weigh risks using this formula:
    ​**(Good Outcome x 2) – (Bad Outcome x 1)**
    β†’ Score >50 β†’ Act
    β†’ Score <30 β†’ Re-strategize
  3. ​Everyday Valor Journal
    Track weekly micro-braveries:
    Week 1: Reported leaking gas line βœ…
    Week 3: Drove coworker to detox center βœ…

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