Appetite Quote by Aristotle
“In bad or corrupted natures the body will often appear to rule over the soul, because they are in an evil and unnatural condition. At all events we may firstly observe in living creatures both a despotical and a constitutional rule; for the soul rules the body with a despotical rule, whereas the intellect rules the appetites with a constitutional and royal rule. And it is clear that the rule of the soul over the body, and of the mind and the rational element over the passionate, is natural and expedient; whereas the equality of the two or the rule of the inferior is always hurtful.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle, 350 BC
The soul should govern the body, while reason should guide desires; natural hierarchy promotes harmony, whereas equal rule leads to disorder.
In simple terms: Reason should lead the body and desires.
Key Takeaway
Follow rational guidance over impulsive urges.
Themes
philosophy
ethics
human nature
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- conflict resolution
- habit formation
- leadership
- education
Key Concepts
hierarchy
reason
self‑control
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you prioritize reason over emotion?
- When does equal partnership improve outcomes?
A Different Perspective
Assumes a clear division between soul and body that may not hold for all philosophies.
