The four essential virtues in Stoicism
by Atman Nityananda
In Stoicism, the four basic virtues, wisdom, courage, justice and temperance, are fundamental principles or qualities considered necessary for a virtuous and morally correct life. These virtues serve as a guide for moral decision making and personal growth.
The Stoics viewed these virtues as the key to living a virtuous life and provided a framework for making moral choices and living in harmony with the rational order of the universe.
What follows is a closer look at each of the four core virtues of Stoicism:
- Wisdom (care): Wisdom is the virtue of practical intelligence and sound judgment. In Stoicism, it includes the ability to understand and apply philosophical principles to effectively deal with life’s challenges. This includes recognizing what is truly valuable, distinguishing between what is under our control and what is not, and making rational decisions based on reason rather than emotion. Wisdom helps individuals develop a deep understanding of the natural order and their role within it.
- Courage (Courage): Courage is the virtue of bravery and resilience in the face of adversity or fear. It is not only physical bravery, but also the moral courage to stand up for what is right and face difficulties and challenges with dignity. Stoicism encourages individuals to face their fears, endure difficulties and act virtuously even when it is difficult or uncomfortable.
- Justice (Justice): Justice is the virtue of fairness, honesty, and treating others with respect and equality. It includes respect for the rights and dignity of all persons, honesty in our dealings, and adherence to moral principles. Stoicism teaches that a just and moral life is an essential aspect of virtue and leads to inner peace and social harmony.
- Continence (“Temperance”): Temperance is the virtue of self-control and moderation. It involves managing one’s desires and appetites in a balanced and reasonable manner. Stoics believe that excessive desires, whether for wealth, pleasure, or power, can lead to resentment and moral weakness. By practicing temperance, individuals can avoid excess, live a simple and contented life, and maintain control over their actions and emotions.
These four basic virtues are interrelated and form the foundation of stoic ethics. The Stoics believed that by cultivating these virtues and aligning their actions with them, individuals could achieve bliss, often translated as “well-being” or “living according to one’s true nature.” Bliss is the ultimate goal of Stoicism and represents a state of inner peace, integration and moral perfection.
The Stoics viewed the four virtues, wisdom, courage, justice and temperance, as the key to living a virtuous life and provided a framework for making moral choices and living in harmony with the rational order of the universe.
🌺 Peace, Love, Harmony
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