Virtudes

Virtudes, or virtues, are positive character traits that incline individuals to act in morally good and practically effective ways. The term comes from the Latin virtus, meaning excellence, strength, or moral power.

In ancient philosophy, virtue lies at the heart of ethical life. Aristotle defined virtue as a disposition to choose the mean between two vices, cultivated by habit, and oriented toward the good. The resulting flourishing of a well-ordered life is eudaimonia.

Classical Western lists distinguish the cardinal virtues—prudence (practical wisdom), justice, temperance (self-control), and fortitude (courage)—which guide action across diverse situations.

In Christian thought, theological virtues—faith, hope, and charity (love)—are considered infused by grace and foundational to moral life, guiding the believer beyond mere human effort.

Other traditions offer different virtue schemes. Confucian ethics highlights benevolence, righteousness, propriety, and wisdom; Islamic ethics emphasizes piety, justice, generosity, and truthfulness; Hindu and Buddhist systems stress compassion, non-harm, detachment, and self-control.

In contemporary psychology, virtues are studied as character strengths suitable for personal development. The VIA Classification groups core virtues—wisdom, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence—each containing several strengths.

Ethical theories differ in emphasis: virtue ethics focuses on character and motivation, whereas deontological and consequentialist approaches prioritize duties or outcomes. Cultivating virtues typically involves education, reflection, practice, and supportive social environments.