The Cardinal Virtues

The cardinal virtues are the four principal moral virtues upon which all other virtues hinge (from the Latin cardo, hinge): Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, and Temperance. They are acquired through education, deliberate acts, and perseverance in struggle, and are elevated by divine grace (CCC 1805).

Prudence

Prudence is the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern the true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it. It is the "charioteer of the virtues" — guiding the exercise of all the others. The prudent person knows not only what is good but how to do it rightly in specific situations (CCC 1806).

Justice

Justice is the constant and firm will to give God and neighbor their due. It disposes the person to respect the rights of others and to establish harmony in relationships. Justice toward God is the virtue of religion; justice toward neighbor includes honesty, fairness, and the keeping of promises (CCC 1807).

Fortitude

Fortitude ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptation and to overcome obstacles. Fortitude can reach the point of bearing death for a just cause — the virtue of the martyrs (CCC 1808).

Temperance

Temperance moderates the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the will's mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable — neither denying pleasure entirely nor surrendering to it (CCC 1809).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are these called "cardinal" virtues? From the Latin cardo — hinge. All other moral virtues are related to and depend upon these four. They are the hinges on which the moral life turns (CCC 1805).