In Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics he discusses the “mean state”. This is the ideal course of action on a behavioral spectrum. Here’s an example:
“…the states of excess and defect in regard of Wealth are respectively Prodigality and Stinginess: the latter of these terms we attach invariably to those who are over careful about Wealth, but the former we apply sometimes with a complex notion; that is to say, we give the name to those who fail of self-control and spend money on the unrestrained gratification of their passions; and this is why they are thought to be most base, because they have many vices at once.”
What Aristotle is saying is that when it comes to money being too cheap is bad, but also being too loose with your money is sinful. So, we must find a happy medium, or the “mean state”, which is to use logic and reason when spending one’s money, which will lead one to a point between prodigality and stinginess as Aristotle says.
So what does this have to do with Instagram?
Instagram was well before Aristotle’s time. Duh!
But if he were alive today he would be appalled. Aristotle would say that being a fat slob is a disgrace, but also being obsessed with one’s body in a narcissistic way is excessive and “base”, which is giving into your lowliest instincts.
Have you noticed that nearly everyone in Western society is on the far ends of the physical spectrum? Clearly they haven’t read Aristotle…
Instead, the right approach to presenting your body to the world is being healthy, fit and strong. To paraphrase Jordan Peterson, you need to be a killer, but keep your sword in a sheath. In other words, don’t show off!
Be humble, and keep the bathroom selfies for girls you’re dating.
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