Temperance

Definition

Temperance is the virtue of moderation and self-control, especially regarding desires and pleasures. It is about finding balance and exercising restraint, leading to a harmonious life. In the context of political thought, it suggests that a good statesman must exhibit temperance to maintain stability and justice in governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Cicero's view, temperance is essential for a statesman, as it enables leaders to make rational decisions without being swayed by passion or personal interest.
2. Cicero believed that a tempered leader would foster a stable government by promoting laws and policies that reflect moderation and consideration for the common good.
3. Temperance also relates to the idea of public service, as it encourages leaders to prioritize their responsibilities over personal gratification.
4. Cicero linked temperance with other virtues like justice and courage, arguing that a balanced character enhances effective leadership.
5. The concept of temperance has historical roots in Greek philosophy, particularly in Plato's works, where it is depicted as one of the cardinal virtues necessary for a just society.

Review Questions

• How does temperance contribute to effective leadership according to Cicero?
  • Temperance is crucial for effective leadership because it allows leaders to maintain self-control and make decisions based on reason rather than emotion. Cicero argues that a leader who practices temperance can navigate complex political landscapes without being influenced by personal desires or passions. This moderation fosters a stable government environment and ensures that policies reflect the common good rather than individual interests.
• In what ways does Cicero connect temperance with other virtues like justice and prudence?
  • Cicero connects temperance with virtues such as justice and prudence by highlighting that they all contribute to a balanced character essential for good governance. He asserts that a tempered individual is more likely to act justly and make prudent decisions because they are less impulsive and more reflective. This interconnectedness among virtues enhances a leader’s capability to serve effectively and ethically.
• Evaluate the role of temperance in shaping the moral responsibilities of an ideal statesman in Cicero's political philosophy.
  • In Cicero's political philosophy, temperance plays a pivotal role in defining the moral responsibilities of an ideal statesman. It serves as a foundation for other virtues, guiding leaders to act responsibly and ethically. By emphasizing moderation, Cicero argues that an ideal statesman must prioritize the welfare of society over personal ambitions or desires. This adherence to temperance ensures that the statesman remains focused on justice and the common good, ultimately leading to a more harmonious and stable state.

Related terms

Virtue Ethics: An ethical theory that emphasizes the role of character and virtues in moral philosophy, focusing on what kind of person one should be.

Justice:

A fundamental virtue that involves fairness, moral rightness, and the equitable distribution of benefits and burdens in society.

Prudence: The ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason, often considered a key virtue in making wise decisions.