Philotimo

Philotimo (Greek φιλότιμο) is a Greek noun translating to “friend of honour” or "love of honour”. However, Philotimo is almost impossible to translate sufficiently as it describes a complex array of virtues.

Philotimo is considered to be the highest of all Greek virtues which determines and regulates how someone should behave in their family and social groups. In its simplest form it means “doing good”, and it ensures your behaviour will make you stand out from others. It will tell others what kind of a person you are and about the way you were raised by your family. Philotimo to a Greek is essentially a way of life.

Children are said to have Philotimo when they display unconditional love and respect towards their parents, grandparents and friends. It can mean gratitude for a small gift someone might have given you, or a small random act of kindness someone may have shown you. It is an appreciation and admiration for heritage and ancestors - Philotimo is honour and pride.

During the Second World War, strong bonds were formed and still exist in places like the Greek island of Crete where the locals would risk their own lives to hide and shelter Australian and British soldiers from the Nazi German occupying forces. The locals felt duty-bound to help, their Philotimo urged them on - If caught, they risked facing a firing squad.

Philotimo is the feeling of not being able to do enough for your family, society and your community. Philotimo is to get more satisfaction from giving than from taking.

All the above are examples of how complex and powerful this one word really is and the different emotions it can evoke.

The concept of in Philotimo in Greek Philosophy

A famous quote from the Classical Greek philosopher Socrates:

“Virtue is knowledge, and the man who knows the right will act rightly.”

reflects the concept of Philotimo