Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics Quote:“The profligate is pained by absence of base pleasures; the temperate feels no lack.”​

“The profligate is pained by absence of base pleasures; the temperate feels no lack.”​
— Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book III, Chapter 11
(Translated by W.D. Ross)

Big Idea

Life’s a game where self-control unlocks true freedom 🎮:

• ​Profligate Player = Relies on cheat codes (junk food, endless scrolling) → Crashes when cheats glitch.
• ​Temperate Player = Plays fair → Wins with skill, not shortcuts 🏆.

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​Real-Life Scenarios

📱 ​Social Media Addiction

→ Profligate: Panics without Instagram → “My likes are dropping!” 😱
→ Temperate: Posts mindfully → No FOMO, just fun.

🍔 ​Snack Attacks

→ Profligate: Melts down without chips → Raids pantry at midnight.
→ Temperate: Eats veggies + treats → No guilt, no cravings.

🎮 ​Gaming Habits

→ Profligate: Rages when hacks fail → Smashes keyboard.
→ Temperate: Levels up fairly → Earns respect (and loot).

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​What You Can Do

1. ​Cheat Code Detox
   Track 1 habit for 3 days:
   → Example: “Scrolled 4 hrs → Felt empty” vs. “Read 30 mins → Proud.”
2. ​24-Hour Reset
   Ditch one indulgence (soda, TikTok) → Journal: “Did I survive? 😅”
3. ​The “Why” Check
   Before indulging, ask:
   → “Am I doing this for joy… or just habit?”