Ancient Greek terms worth reviving (classicalwisdom.substack.com)

Article summary

The article discusses 12 Ancient Greek terms that the author believes should be revived in modern society, including eudaimonia, arete, and xenia. These terms relate to concepts such as happiness, excellence, and hospitality, and were important in Ancient Greek philosophy and culture. The article provides definitions and explanations of each term, and suggests that they could be useful in modern society. The terms are drawn from various areas of Ancient Greek thought, including philosophy, literature, and social norms.

Main themes

• Ancient Greek philosophy
• cultural heritage
• language and translation
• ethics and morality
• personal growth and development
• social norms and relationships

What commenters say

• The concept of arete is more complex and nuanced than a simple translation to excellence, and encompasses ideas of honor, nobility, and virtue.
• The French word arête, meaning ridge or edge, is unrelated to the Greek concept of arete, despite similar spellings.
• Some commenters argue that calling out weaknesses of will, such as akrasia, is necessary for personal growth and improvement, while others believe it is judgmental and restrictive.
• The idea of xenia, or guest-friendship, is a rich and multifaceted concept that involves reciprocal obligations and generosity between hosts and guests.
• The use of Ancient Greek terms can add depth and nuance to modern discussions of ethics, morality, and human behavior.
• Some commenters believe that judging others for their behavior, such as being overweight, is inappropriate and overstepping, while others think it can be a necessary and helpful intervention.
• The concept of akrasia, or weakness of will, is relevant to modern society and can be seen in many areas of life, including personal health and relationships.
• The discussion of Ancient Greek terms highlights the importance of understanding the historical and cultural context in which they were used, and being mindful of potential misinterpretations or mistranslations.