Cicero's Four Cardinal Virtues

Cicero writes to his son Marcus “On Duties” (Cicero, 1960) explaining the practical code of behavior. His emphasis includes the view of “the unnaturalness of doing wrong” (p. 166). According to Cicero, looting or harming another for personal increase destroyed the unquestionable conception of nature which “unites every human being with every other” (p. 166). Yet there is nothing wrong or unnatural in making a living. Adherence to nature is the driving force rather than self-gratification. Selfish motives that guide the path of the wrong doer, either cannot see the abnormality of his wrongs or refuses to accept that selfishness is evil. Such individuals are beyond reasoning and rectification. Cicero establishes that the sole purpose is “to identify the interest of each with the interest of all” (p.168). Considering the prescription of nature as rendering help one to another, then all are also possessing similar interests. On such an assumption Cicero concludes all are under the rule of a single force of nature therefore the identical law …show more content…
He further illustrated using the Four Cardinal Virtues or moral obligations, namely, wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance which are the constituents of good life for the Stoics. He differentiates what is morally right and what is advantageous by means of conflicting moral choice scenarios. Certain deeds are considered erroneous to even consider and indecisiveness is an offence (p.172). Probable impressions of gain could be puzzling (p. 173). Therefore, rightness is the essential criterion of advantage. Friendship should take precedence over one’s seeming benefits, such as political success, wealth, and sensual gratification. Nonetheless, it would not once reject what is right. Acting against one’s own country should overrule any friendship and relationships (p.