Virtues And Their — Vices
: Traits like intellectual humility and autonomy that aim for deep understanding rather than mere memorization.
: Traditional "vices" such as anger or ego are not inherently evil; they can serve as protective mechanisms for self-preservation or self-esteem when harnessed wisely.
The exploration of " Virtues and Their Vices " reveals a complex landscape where moral excellence is often defined not just by the presence of "good" traits, but by the precise balance maintained between opposing extremes. The Interplay of Character Virtues and Their Vices
: Virtues and vices are formed through habit. If a virtue like temperance is not actively practiced, it can erode over time, allowing competing non-temperate actions to take root. Foundational Classifications
: Often referred to as the "Seven Deadly Sins"—pride, greed, envy, wrath, lust, gluttony, and sloth—which are countered by "remedial" virtues like humility, charity, and patience. : Traits like intellectual humility and autonomy that
Historically, virtues like , justice , and temperance have been viewed as intermediaries between two distinct vices: a deficiency and an excess. For example, courage exists as a noble mean between the deficiency of cowardice and the excess of recklessness .
: True virtue is often distinguished from "continence," or strength of will. While a continent person struggles against a vice to do the right thing, the fully virtuous person acts rightly without inner conflict. The Interplay of Character : Virtues and vices
: Foundational traits like prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance.