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Self-control is the chief element in self-respect, and respect of self, in turn, is the chief element in courage.
Thucydides
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Self-control fosters self-respect, which is foundational for true courage.

This quote by Thucydides emphasizes the importance of self-control as a fundamental aspect of self-respect. It suggests that without the ability to control one’s impulses and behaviors, achieving a sense of respect for oneself becomes difficult, and this respect is crucial for developing the courage to face challenges and act with integrity.

Themes

Self-ControlSelf-RespectCourageWisdom

In practice

Example use cases

During a motivational speech to inspire youth to develop emotional intelligence.

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The peoples of the Mediterranean began to emerge from barbarism when they learned to cultivate the olive and the vine.
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We Greeks are lovers of the beautiful, yet simple in our tastes, and we cultivate the mind without loss of manliness.
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If it had not been for the pernicious power of envy, men would not so have exalted vengeance above innocence and profit above justice... in these acts of revenge on others, men take it upon themselves to begin the process of repealing those general laws of humanity which are there to give a hope of salvation to all who are in distress.
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Thucydides, an Athenian, wrote the history of the war between the Peloponnesians and the Athenians, he began at the moment that it broke out, believing that it would be a great war, and more memorable than any that had preceded it.
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Some legislators only wish to vengeance against a particular enemy. Others only look out for themselves. They devote very little time on the consideration of any public issue. They think that no harm will come from their neglect. They act as if it is always the business of somebody else to look after this or that. When this selfish notion is entertained by all, the commonwealth slowly begins to decay.
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Remember that this greatness was won by men with courage, with knowledge of their duty, and with a sense of honor in action.
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