Cardinal Virtues

Definition

Cardinal virtues are fundamental moral virtues that are considered essential for living a virtuous life. These four key virtues—prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance—serve as the foundational principles guiding ethical behavior and decision-making in both individual conduct and societal governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aquinas emphasizes the cardinal virtues as essential for achieving a good and just life, both personally and socially.
2. Each cardinal virtue corresponds to a different aspect of human behavior, providing a holistic framework for ethical living.
3. Prudence is often seen as the 'mother' of the cardinal virtues because it guides the application of the other virtues in practical situations.
4. The practice of these virtues is crucial for just governance, as leaders who embody these traits are better equipped to make fair and wise decisions.
5. Aquinas links the cardinal virtues with natural law, asserting that they help individuals align their actions with moral truths inherent in human nature.

Review Questions

• How do the cardinal virtues contribute to individual ethical decision-making?
  • The cardinal virtues provide a framework for individuals to evaluate their actions and make ethical choices. Prudence allows a person to assess situations wisely, justice ensures fairness in interactions with others, fortitude gives the strength to face difficulties while doing what is right, and temperance promotes self-control. Together, these virtues help guide individuals toward making morally sound decisions that reflect their values.
• In what ways does Aquinas connect the cardinal virtues to just governance and societal well-being?
  • Aquinas argues that just governance relies heavily on leaders embodying the cardinal virtues. By practicing prudence, leaders can make informed decisions; justice ensures that policies are fair; fortitude supports leaders in making difficult but necessary choices; and temperance helps maintain moderation in governance. This alignment of virtue with leadership is crucial for fostering a just society where laws serve the common good.
• Critically evaluate the relevance of cardinal virtues in contemporary ethical discussions regarding leadership and governance.
  • The cardinal virtues remain highly relevant in today's discussions about leadership and governance as they provide timeless principles for ethical conduct. In an era marked by political corruption and ethical dilemmas, emphasizing virtues such as justice and prudence can guide leaders toward transparency and accountability. Moreover, the cultivation of fortitude encourages leaders to take bold stands on difficult issues, while temperance promotes balance amidst extremes. By applying these virtues, contemporary leaders can foster trust and integrity within their communities, ultimately leading to more effective governance.

Related terms

Prudence: The virtue that allows individuals to make wise decisions by discerning the appropriate course of action in various situations.

Justice: The virtue that emphasizes fairness and the equitable treatment of individuals, ensuring that everyone receives their due.

Fortitude: The virtue that involves courage and resilience in facing challenges or adversity while maintaining moral integrity.