Heroism - what makes someone a hero?

Who is your hero and what qualities convince you that it is so?

The most obvious example is that of selfless acts of sacrifice in times of war.


Battle situations create crisis for someone to step in to sacrifice for the benefit of the group or country.  Whether it is the soldier who throws himself over a ticking grenade to cover the explosion so that his comrades can survive or the volunteer to charge at the enemy against all odds, we consider them heroes.

Do heroes always have to be "unsung"? 

Mercenaries who are paid handsomely to take great risks may be performing the same act but likely will not be awarded heroic status.  Do heroes have to perform an act in situation they didn't choose?

But what if it is a soldier that craves visions of glory, placing the value of legacy over his life.  This is his chance to achieve everlasting fame.  Should he still be considered a hero?

In other words, is it the act alone or is intent and integral part?

What about the admirers, do we admire acts of heroism by German and Japanese military men in the second world war?  Are they heroes nevertheless?

Is the cause a essential part of heroism?

What is the difference between bravery and heroism.?

What is the difference between heroic versus a reckless act?

Are heroes promoted by the propaganda machine to glorify risky acts that no thinking person would otherwise do?  The Japanese suicide bombers come to mind.



Many would consider Nelson Mandela a hero.  Is it because he endured years of prison life? or because his forgiveness of the prison guards? or the conciliatory approach he took in leading the change after being release from prison?  Would he be a hero if he did not go to prison but achieve what he achieved?



If we agree that heroes have to be selfless, make sacrifices, take great risks, found themselves in situations they didn't choose, towards a cause that others approve, possibly in order to have glory......

It does not add up to a great picture.