acording to tom what is the diffrence between a hermit and a pirate? Why is being a pirate more noble

From the text:

Joe was for being a hermit, and living on crusts in a remote cave, and dying, some time, of cold and want and grief; but after listening to Tom, he conceded that there were some conspicuous advantages about a life of crime, and so he consented to be a pirate."

Tom manages to convince Joe that being a hermit and giving up all earthly pleasures (food, warmth, and companionship) doesn't sound half as good as becoming a pirate. Piracy became an adventure that had no plan. It also afforded companionship rather than isolation.