Acrasia, also known as ἀκρασία, is a Greek term used to refer to the inability to control one's impulses or desires. The spelling of Acrasia can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /əˈkreɪziə/. The first syllable, "a", is pronounced with the short schwa sound, followed by a stressed "kra". The final syllable, "sia", is pronounced with the long "ee" sound and an unstressed "a" sound. Acrasia is a challenging concept to understand, but its spelling is relatively straightforward.
Acrasia is a noun that refers to a state of mind characterized by a lack of self-control or a failure to act in accordance with one's own better judgment. This term is frequently used in philosophy and psychology, particularly in the context of moral and ethical decision-making.
Derived from the Greek words "a-" meaning "lack of" and "kratia" meaning "power" or "control," acrasia denotes a state of weakness or inability to resist one's desires or impulses despite knowing and acknowledging that they may be harmful or detrimental in the long run. It implies a discrepancy between what one believes or considers morally right and the actions one actually engages in.
Acrasia often involves succumbing to immediate gratification rather than adhering to long-term goals or pursuing higher values. It is associated with a lack of self-discipline, weakened willpower, and an inner conflict between conflicting desires or motives. A person in a state of acrasia may be aware of the potential negative consequences of their actions, yet still struggle to resist temptation or act in line with their best intentions.
Acrasia can manifest in various aspects of life, such as impulsive spending, procrastination, indulging in unhealthy habits, and failing to follow through on commitments. Philosophers and psychologists have long debated the causes and implications of acrasia, exploring theories related to desires, motivation, self-control, and the nature of intention.
Incontinence, intemperance.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Acrasia" is derived from the Ancient Greek term "akrasia" (ἀκρασία), which is a combination of the prefix "a-" (meaning "without" or "lack of") and "kratos" (meaning "power" or "rule"). In Greek philosophy, "akrasia" referred to a lack of self-control or the inability to act according to one's own best judgment.
The term was later adopted and popularized in Western philosophical discourse, particularly by the philosopher Aristotle. In his ethical works, Aristotle explored the concept of akrasia as a moral weakness or irrationality in individuals who knowingly act against their own better judgment or principles.