Definition Of Pride Essay

Swallowing Your Pride

Originating from Old English, pride was first defined as excessive self-esteem. Pride is currently defined as a feeling of satisfaction derived from one’s own achievements. To most individuals, pride is assumed and interpreted as a rather positive trait. Even the bible recognizes the concept and feeling of pride, but it is stigmatized with being the deadliest of the seven sins. Pride is a complex concept that can bring one to feel self value, yet also be one’s greatest flaw. Personally, I am prideful for my sense of self-sufficiency and independence. I find that because I take responsibility I have a high standard of self-respect for myself; which results in a feeling of pride. In my personal experience pride has always been a positive attribute. Yet for many individuals, pride is their self-destructive vice. When is pride acceptable? When does pride turn into a vice? In the words of Jules Verne, “You cannot oppose reasoning to pride, the principal of all the vices, since, by its nature, the proud man

In Christianity, it is perceived and credited to be the sin of all sins. We’re told it was Lucifer’s pride that made him become the devil and turn against God. Saint Augustine is quoted saying, “It was pride that changed angels to devils; it is humility that makes men as angels.” So, is someone deemed to be more authentic and pure if they are modest - if they possess no pride and not allow themselves self-recognition? During my research on pride, I found an author and psychologist by the name of Jessica Tracy. Her book “Take Pride” explores the concept and feeling of pride. Tracy differentiates two kinds of pride: authentic and hubristic. An example to evaluate the difference is that authentic pride nudges you to keep doing good work; hubristic pride is more about letting others know that you already did some work, and, hey, look, everybody — look how good it was!