Stoic Virtues
The four cardinal virtues of Stoicism—Wisdom, Justice, Courage, and Moderation—considered the foundation of a good life.
Also known as: Four Cardinal Virtues, Stoic Values, Cardinal Virtues
Category: Frameworks
Tags: stoicism, philosophies, virtue, ethics, character, values
Explanation
The Stoic Virtues are four cardinal virtues that the Stoics considered essential for living a good life (eudaimonia). They believed that virtue is the only true good and that these four virtues encompass all aspects of moral excellence.
**The Four Cardinal Virtues**:
1. **Wisdom (Sophia/Prudentia)**
- The ability to navigate complex situations with good judgment
- Understanding what is truly valuable and what is not
- Knowing what is within our control and what isn't
- Making decisions aligned with nature and reason
2. **Justice (Dikaiosyne/Iustitia)**
- Treating others fairly and with dignity
- Fulfilling our duties to community and society
- Acting with integrity in relationships
- Giving others what they are due
3. **Courage (Andreia/Fortitudo)**
- Not just physical bravery, but moral courage
- Facing difficulties and fears without being overwhelmed
- Persisting in what is right despite obstacles
- Speaking truth even when unpopular
4. **Moderation (Sophrosyne/Temperantia)**
- Self-control and discipline
- Avoiding excess in all things
- Mastery over desires and impulses
- Finding balance and the 'golden mean'
**How They Work Together**:
- Wisdom guides us to know what is right
- Justice ensures we act rightly toward others
- Courage gives us strength to act despite fear
- Moderation keeps our actions balanced
**Practical Application**:
When facing any situation, ask:
- What would wisdom suggest? (What's the wise course?)
- What does justice require? (What's fair to others?)
- What does courage demand? (What am I afraid to do that's right?)
- What does moderation advise? (Am I being excessive or deficient?)
These virtues are interconnected—you cannot truly have one without the others. They form the core of Stoic ethics and character development.
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