A craving for the applause or admiration of others, often accompanied by the belief that one has acquired it. Whereas a person of proper pride is content to deserve that good opinion, and need not care whether others appreciate that he does so, the vain person requires the praise itself, whether or not he or she actually deserves it. Aquinas fails to notice the clear distinction between vanity and pride, but associates both with the desire for distinction and importance. Vanity is often supposed to be a defensive reaction against low self-esteem, leading to fear of the low esteem of others and thence a constant need for reassurance. Philosophers as different as Aquinas, Mandeville, Smith, and Veblen regard vanity as the principal motive to the pursuit of wealth and distinction. See also amour propre, conceit, envy, great-souled man, narcissism, selfie.