Pride

Pride is a complex emotional and moral concept referring to a sense of self-respect or satisfaction in one's own achievements, qualities, or identity. It can describe healthy self-esteem and accomplishment, as well as the positive pride that comes from group or communal belonging. In religious and ethical traditions, pride is sometimes framed as a vice when it becomes excessive or baseless, and in some contexts it is seen as a root of other sins.

In psychological terms, pride is often distinguished as authentic pride, tied to genuine achievement or merit, and hubristic pride, marked by arrogance and a superiority complex. Authentic pride can motivate persistence and competence, while hubristic pride can impair relationships and judgment.

Cultural and contemporary usage includes the term LGBT Pride, referring to a movement for rights, visibility, and acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people. Pride events, such as parades, and symbols like the rainbow flag, are used to express solidarity and celebrate identity. Pride can also refer more broadly to pride in a nation, a community, a profession, or individual work.

Historically, pride features in Christian theology as one of the seven deadly sins, often described as the sin that precedes disobedience and the fall. Many religious and ethical traditions uphold humility as a virtue that counters pride. Critics of excessive pride argue that it can justify exclusion, aggression, or moral complacency, while proponents argue that pride, when grounded in integrity, contributes to dignity and resilience.