"I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies; for the hardest victory is over self"

Aristotle draws a distinction between external conquest and internal mastery, suggesting that self-control is the highest form of bravery. While history often celebrates those who defeat their adversaries in battle or competition, Aristotle elevates those who confront and prevail over their own inner impulses and desires. Overcoming external enemies typically requires strength, strategy, and courage, but these attributes are, in his view, less demanding than the qualities necessary for self-mastery.

Desires are powerful forces within every individual. Temptation, anger, fear, greed, and other strong emotions can lead people astray, pulling them away from reason and virtue. To master these desires is to exert an enduring discipline, to maintain vigilance against one's own weaknesses, to choose what is right over what is easy or pleasurable. Aristotle proposes that this daily, ongoing challenge demands more sustained effort and courage than a single heroic act against an outside foe. While enemies can be seen and fought, internal struggles are often subtle; the battlefield is the mind and the stakes are one's character and well-being.

Furthermore, victory over oneself is not just personal but universal. Everyone, regardless of status, faces the challenge of managing desires, and the consequences of failing at this task are far-reaching. A person who cannot govern themselves may bring harm to others and to society. Conversely, mastering the self leads to wisdom, peace, and the ability to act justly with others.

True bravery, therefore, resides not just in external feats but in the continual, difficult work of self-improvement. By placing this above physical conquest, Aristotle champions values of self-awareness, discipline, and moral fortitude, shaping a philosophy in which personal virtue is the cornerstone of a good life and a good society.