Understanding Virtue of Moderation
My Definition
What is Moderation? Moderation, to me in simple terms, is about not going overboard with anything. It’s like keeping things in check—whether it’s how much you eat, how angry you get, or how much time you spend on something. It means finding a sweet spot where you’re not doing too much or too little, just what feels balanced. Like, enjoying a slice of cake but not eating the whole thing, or getting annoyed without letting it ruin your day. It’s staying balanced and not letting extremes take over.
Benjamin Franklin’s Meaning of Moderation
Benjamin Franklin, in his Autobiography, listed moderation as one of his 13 virtues, defining it as: “Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.” This virtue reflects his belief in balance, self-restraint, and emotional discipline. Let’s break it down:
- Avoiding Extremes: Franklin advocated for a measured approach to life, whether in behavior, consumption, or opinions. He believed that going too far in any direction—be it indulgence, ambition, or even virtuous pursuits—could lead to imbalance or harm. For example, eating too much or too little, or working to the point of exhaustion, disrupts personal harmony. Moderation meant finding the “golden mean,” a concept rooted in Aristotelian philosophy, where virtue lies between excess and deficiency.
- Forbearing Resentment: The second part of Franklin’s definition focuses on emotional moderation, specifically in handling anger or grudges. He advised against overreacting to wrongs done to you. Furthermore, suggesting that one should restrain the impulse to seek revenge or dwell on injuries beyond what’s reasonable. This aligns with his pragmatic approach to relationships and society—holding onto resentment excessively could cloud judgment and escalate conflicts unnecessarily.
Cultivate Personal Improvement
Franklin’s emphasis on moderation was part of his broader project to cultivate personal improvement and moral character. He saw it as a practical tool for living well, maintaining health, and fostering social harmony. For instance, in his own life, he applied moderation to his diet (avoiding gluttony), his debates (steering clear of dogmatic arguments), and even his pursuit of wealth (prioritizing sufficiency over excess).
In essence, to Franklin’s its is about self-discipline and perspective—knowing when to stop, when to let go, and how to live with balance in a complex world. It’s less about denying desires or emotions and more about channeling them wisely to avoid the pitfalls of excess.
Check out other great blogs such as Ben Franklin’s 13 Virtues.
Great bio on Ben Franklin can be found at History.com.
