Megalopsychia

μεγαλοψυχία

meg-ah-loh-psoo-KHEE-ah

Advanced

Greatness of soul—the virtue of one who considers themselves worthy of great things and is actually worthy of them. For Aristotle, it is the crown of all virtues, belonging to those who rightly claim honor for genuine excellence while remaining untroubled by fortune or misfortune.

Modern Application

Cultivate an accurate estimation of your own worth—neither false modesty that shrinks from responsibility nor arrogance that claims unearned status. When you develop genuine excellence, step forward to lead without apology. Your ability to remain steady in both praise and criticism signals the inner magnitude that draws others to follow.

Related Concepts

Arete Philotimia Sophrosyne Hubris Eleutheria Hexis

Articles Exploring Megalopsychia (2)

September 15, 2025

Leadership

Why Leaders Who Don't Need Applause Get All the Respect

The leaders who command the most respect don't need your applause to do the work. And that's exactly why you can't stop watching them.

July 25, 2025

Excellence

When Craft Becomes Cowardice: The Ancient Test for True Excellence

Jason Fried's knife-maker defense sounds reasonable, stay in your lane, perfect your craft, ignore the pressure to build battleships. But what if your 'disciplined focus' is just fear dressed as virtue? Aristotle had a test for this.

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