Definition:

Sophrosyne is the Greek word for an important virtue, sometimes contrasted with hubris, and translated into Latin as temperantia 'temperance'. The virtue of sophrosyne includes self-control, so for the Stoics, sophrosyne was one of the cardinal virtues, along with courage, prudence, and justice. Sophrosyne is the virtue discussed in the Platonic dialogue, Charmides.

For more on sophrosyne, see the Sophrosyne blog post.

Featured Thursday's Term to Learn.

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Pronunciation: so-fro-soo-nay

Also Known As: Temperance

Alternate Spellings: Sophrosyn