Definition
The ability to act despite fear, when action appears fair and proportionate to the risks.
Courage can be physical, moral, civic or relational. Asking for help, recognizing a mistake or leaving an abusive group sometimes takes more courage than supporting in silence.
To be retained
- Recognizing Fear Without Shame
- Assessing the real risk
- Stepwise
- Seeking allies
Origin of the term and context
Courage is linked to the word heart. In Aristotle's ethics, it lies between cowardice and recklessness: a virtue governed by situation and prudence.
Why does it matter?
Courage is not a measurable lack of fear, it describes a course of action in the face of risk. Social resources, preparation and a sense of efficiency can make action more possible.
- Recognizing Fear Without Shame
- Assessing the real risk
- Stepwise
- Seeking allies
How can it be explored or practised?
- Name an important truth with respect
- Asking for help so far avoided
- Preparing a small act consistent with its values
- Supporting an isolated person without unnecessarily endangering himself
Misconceptions and points of caution
- Terror is not courage.
- We must not demand heroism from the victims.
- Caution can be brave.
Perspectives from different traditions
- Aristotle: a balance between excessive fear and recklessness.
- Bhagavad-Gītā: acting according to his duty, with a warrior context to interpret.
- Committed Buddhism: to face suffering without hatred.
To go further
- Ethics in Nicomaque — Aristotle
- Courage to Be — Paul Tillich