Pride

Pride

There is a normal benign level of pride that is more correctly termed, ‘self-esteem’ or ‘self-care’. This refers to putting one’s best foot forward and normal satisfaction that result from successful effort and achievement.  These forms of positive self-image are the result of effort and are therefore appropriate and not necessarily inflationary to the ego. They have been earned and have a realistic foundation.

Pride as a spiritual defect refers to pridefulness as an attitude and a positionality. It is an arrogance that can apply to beliefs, thoughts, opinions, and the general attitude of being better than others.  This is an over evaluation of self-worth and is commonly referred to as egotism. Since it is not based on accomplishment and is unearned, it is fragile.

From I: Reality and Subjectivity, ch 12, pg. 266