The Four Cardinal Virtues: Foundation of Stoic Ethics
Master the four cardinal virtues of Stoicism: Wisdom, Justice, Courage, and Temperance. Learn how these ancient principles create a complete ethical framework.
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Understanding The Four Cardinal Virtues: Foundation of Stoic Ethics
The four cardinal virtues - Wisdom (Sophia), Justice (Dikaiosyne), Courage (Andreia), and Temperance (Sophrosyne) - form the cornerstone of Stoic ethics. Unlike modern self-help that focuses on external success, these virtues create internal excellence that no external circumstance can destroy.
Practical Exercises
Wisdom (Sophia)
Evening reflection: Ask yourself 'What did I learn today?' and 'What assumptions did I question?'
Before making decisions, pause and ask: 'Am I acting from knowledge or mere opinion?'
Justice (Dikaiosyne)
Daily fairness check: Review your interactions - did you treat others with respect and honesty?
When disagreeing with someone, focus on understanding their perspective before arguing your point.
Courage (Andreia)
Identify one fear that holds you back and take a small step toward facing it today.
Practice speaking up in meetings when you have valuable input but feel nervous.
Temperance (Sophrosyne)
Choose one pleasure (food, entertainment, shopping) and practice moderation with it.
When feeling strong emotions, pause and ask: 'Is this response proportional to the situation?'
Modern Application
In todays world, these virtues counter common problems: wisdom fights information overload and fake news, justice addresses inequality and social division, courage enables ethical leadership and personal growth, temperance provides balance in a culture of excess.
Deeper Resources
Continue Your Stoic Journey
The Four Stoic Virtues
Core principles of character development
Stoic Principles
Essential teachings for daily life
Marcus Aurelius
The philosopher emperor
Dichotomy of Control
The foundation of Stoic practice
Stoic Meditation
Ancient practices for modern mindfulness
Famous Stoics
Great philosophers throughout history