Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics Quote: “Temperance is moderation in bodily pleasures; excess is profligacy, deficiency is insensibility.”​

“Temperance is moderation in bodily pleasures; excess is profligacy, deficiency is insensibility.”​
— Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book II, Chapter 7

Core Idea

Temperance is your body’s smart thermostat — it maintains 72°F balance between frozen repression () and burning excess (). Like budgeting 80% nutrients and 20% treats, ​ethical self-control lets you savor life without crashing.

Why This Matters Today

​Junk Food Economics
Devour fries daily → taste buds numb → require saltier snacks
Follow 80/20 rule → enjoy fries weekly → rediscover natural flavors

​Gaming Moderation Gym
Play 6hrs straight → hands cramp + grades drop
Limit to 1hr/day → unlock focus for sports/studies

​Sensory Reset Protocol
Binge Netflix nightly → emotional numbness
Watch 2 episodes → journal reflections → awaken ​mindful joy

Action Steps

1. ​Thermostat Tracker
   Use AnyList app to log:
   “Today’s pleasure ratio: ______% nourishing (veggies/sleep) vs ______% indulgence”
2. ​Profligacy Alarm
   Set 3 phone alerts:
   “Is this snack/scroll/splurge 80% wise or 120% reckless?”
3. ​Sensory Detox Challenge
   • Week 1: Delete 3 excess apps / Cut 3 sugary snacks
   • Week 2: Add 3 mindful rituals (herbal tea baths / park soundwalks)