Significance of Ambition
Ambition is portrayed in various cultural texts as a powerful driving force. In Purana, it describes Kaikeyi's desire for Bharata's rule over Rama. The Natyashastra highlights ambition as the goal characters pursue, particularly in the Progression Juncture. In Theravada, ambition encompasses a strong desire for success or power, which can lead to suffering, as warned by the Bodhisatta. Additionally, it represents the aspiration for spiritual attainment motivating the theras and theris in their narratives.
Synonyms: Aspiration, Desire, Drive, Determination, Goal, Passion, Purpose, Zeal, Motivation, Pursuit, Objective, Aim, Intention
In Dutch: Ambitie; In Finnish: Kunnianhimo; In Spanish: Ambición
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Ambition'
In Buddhism, Ambition encompasses a dual nature: it signifies a motivating force for spiritual attainment among practitioners, while also representing a potentially harmful desire for success or power that can lead to suffering, as cautioned by the Bodhisatta.
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The strong desire or goal for spiritual attainment that motivates the theras and theris within the narratives.[1]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A strong desire for success or power that can lead one to suffering, as warned by the Bodhisatta.[2]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Ambition, specifically the rejection of it, characterizes the bodhisattvas, who prioritized spiritual growth and service to others over personal advancement.[3] (2) It is also destructive, as it destroys the young shoots of the qualities and prevents them from prospering, similar to greed. It prevents the pursuit of the bliss of nirvana.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Ambition'
Ambition in Hinduism signifies the pursuit of goals, exemplified in the Progression Juncture, and serves as the motivation behind Kaikeyi's desire for Bharata's ascension over Rama, illustrating its complex role in personal and political dynamics.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The driving force behind Kaikeyi's actions, which leads her to desire Bharata's rule over Rama's.[5]
The concept of Ambition in local and regional sources
Ambition, as defined here, involves a strong desire to achieve, but is negatively impacted by annoyance, which diminishes the drive needed for success.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A strong desire or drive to achieve something that is consumed by a strong feeling of annoyance, leading to a reduction in the drive to achieve.[6]
The concept of Ambition in scientific sources
Ambition in nursing students stems from recognizing their potential and professional standing. This fosters dedication to the nursing profession, driving them to excel and make a significant impact.
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Ambition is fostered in nursing students as they understand their potential and standing, leading to devotion to their nursing profession.[7]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Ambition can be lacking in environmental policies due to the privileging of economic objectives and the depoliticization of environmental politics, hindering progress toward sustainability.[8]
Classical concept of 'Ambition'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) Ambition is identified as a driving force that leads individuals to prioritize being loved over loving, which influences their susceptibility to flattery and the pursuit of honor.[9] (2) "Ambition" is discussed in terms of its relationship to unambitiousness, where it can be seen as both excessive and deficient depending on the context, highlighting the importance of finding a balance.[10] (3) "Ambition" is the disposition of the ambitious man, representing an excessive desire for honor, according to the text.[11]