In the intricate tapestry of political thought, the idea of temperance emerges not merely as a personal virtue, but as a foundational principle for sound government. Drawing from the wisdom of the Great Books of the Western World, this article explores how temperance—the moderation of desires and passions—is essential for both individual leaders and the collective body politic, acting as a bulwark against the destructive forces of vice and ensuring a stable, just society.

The Enduring Idea of Temperance in Political Philosophy

The concept of temperance often conjures images of personal restraint: a refusal of excess, a disciplined approach to one's appetites. Yet, its profound implications extend far beyond the individual, reaching into the very heart of how societies are governed and how power is exercised. For millennia, philosophers from Plato to Aquinas have grappled with the idea of temperance, recognizing it as a critical virtue not just for the self, but for the polis—the political community. In an age often characterized by polarization and unchecked ambition, revisiting this ancient idea offers a vital lens through which to examine the health and sustainability of our political systems.

Temperance as a Cardinal Virtue in the Polis

Within the canon of the Great Books of the Western World, temperance holds a prominent place among the cardinal virtues. It is not merely a passive abstinence but an active harmony, a rational control over the irrational parts of the soul and, by extension, the state.

Plato's Vision: The Harmonious State

In The Republic, Plato posits temperance (sophrosyne) as one of the four virtues essential for both the individual soul and the ideal state. It is the agreement between the naturally superior and inferior parts concerning which should rule. For the state, this means a harmonious ordering where all classes—rulers, auxiliaries, and producers—agree on who should govern, preventing internal strife and ensuring stability. Without this shared understanding and self-control, the state descends into factionalism and ultimately, tyranny, a prime example of political vice.

Aristotle's Golden Mean

Aristotle, in his Nicomachean Ethics, further refines the idea of temperance as a virtue that lies in the "golden mean" between excess and deficiency. Temperance, for him, is the rational control of bodily pleasures and desires. Politically, this translates to moderation in governance—avoiding both tyrannical overreach and anarchic permissiveness. A temperate government seeks balance, equity, and the common good, rather than succumbing to the extremes of power or apathy. It embodies practical wisdom in its decision-making, understanding the limits and proper scope of its actions.

Government and the Call for Moderation

The idea of temperance is not exclusive to individual moral philosophy; it is deeply woven into the fabric of political science and the art of governance.

Rulers and the Restraint of Power

For those in positions of authority, temperance manifests as self-restraint, intellectual humility, and a commitment to justice over personal gain. Cicero, in On Duties, emphasizes the importance of moderation and integrity for public officials, arguing that true leadership requires putting the common good above individual ambition. An intemperate leader, swayed by greed, anger, or hubris, inevitably steers the government toward vice, leading to corruption, oppression, or war.

Citizens and Civic Responsibility

But temperance is also required of the governed. A temperate citizenry understands its role, respects law, and avoids the excesses of factionalism or unbridled pursuit of self-interest that can destabilize the state. John Locke's emphasis on reason and natural law, for instance, implicitly calls for a degree of individual self-governance and moderation in exercising rights to maintain a civil society.

Institutional Temperance: Checks and Balances

Beyond individual actors, the idea of temperance can be institutionalized. Montesquieu, in The Spirit of the Laws, argues for the separation of powers as a mechanism to prevent any single branch of government from accumulating excessive power, thereby embodying a structural form of political temperance. These checks and balances are designed to moderate the potential for vice inherent in unchecked authority.

The Vice of Intemperance in Public Life

Just as temperance is a cornerstone of good government, its opposite—intemperance—is a potent source of political decay and societal chaos. When reason yields to unchecked desires, the consequences for the body politic can be devastating.

Consider the manifestations of political vice that arise from a lack of temperance:

  • Greed and Corruption: The insatiable desire for wealth or power, leading to embezzlement, bribery, and the exploitation of public office for private gain.
  • Hubris and Tyranny: Unchecked pride and an inflated sense of self-importance, leading to authoritarian rule, disregard for law, and the suppression of dissent.
  • Demagoguery and Factionalism: The manipulation of public passions for personal political advantage, often exacerbating divisions and preventing rational discourse.
  • Excessive Indulgence: Leaders who prioritize personal pleasure and comfort over their duties, neglecting the welfare of the state and its citizens.

These vices erode trust, undermine institutions, and ultimately threaten the very stability and legitimacy of the government. History, replete with examples from the fall of empires to modern political scandals, serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of intemperance in public life.

Reclaiming Temperance in Modern Politics

In an era marked by rapid change, complex global challenges, and often fervent ideological clashes, the ancient idea of temperance might seem quaint. Yet, its underlying wisdom—the call for balance, self-control, and reasoned deliberation—is perhaps more urgent than ever. Temperance in politics encourages leaders and citizens alike to temper their passions with reason, to seek common ground rather than absolute victory, and to prioritize long-term stability over short-term gratification. It is about understanding limits, acknowledging complexity, and fostering a culture of mutual respect and constructive dialogue.

(Image: A classical relief sculpture depicting a figure of Sophrosyne (Temperance), perhaps a Greek or Roman goddess, holding a bridle or a measuring cup, symbolizing self-control and moderation, with an inscription in ancient Greek or Latin visible in the background.)

Conclusion

The idea of temperance, deeply embedded in the philosophical traditions of the Great Books of the Western World, offers more than just a moral compass for individuals; it provides a blueprint for enduring and just government. By understanding temperance as a vital virtue and recognizing the dangers of its opposing vice, we can strive to cultivate political systems and leadership that are characterized by moderation, wisdom, and a profound commitment to the common good. For any society seeking stability, fairness, and true flourishing, the pursuit of temperance remains an indispensable political endeavor.

YouTube: Plato's Republic - Temperance in the Ideal State
YouTube: Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics - Virtue of Temperance

Video by: The School of Life

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