Courage

Definition

Courage is the moral virtue that enables individuals to face fear, difficulty, or uncertainty with bravery and resolve. It is not just about physical bravery; it also involves moral courage, which allows a person to stand up for what is right, even in the face of opposition. This virtue is significant because it represents a balance between recklessness and cowardice, aligning with the idea of finding the right response to fear in pursuit of a good life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Courage is often seen as a mean between recklessness (excess) and cowardice (deficiency), embodying Aristotle's Doctrine of the Mean.
2. In Aristotle's view, true courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act rightly despite experiencing fear.
3. Courage can manifest in various forms, including physical bravery in dangerous situations and moral courage when standing up for ethical principles.
4. Aristotle believes that developing courage, like other virtues, requires practice and habituation, making it essential for personal growth and achieving eudaimonia.
5. Cultivating courage contributes to human flourishing by enabling individuals to confront challenges and pursue their goals with confidence.

Review Questions

• How does courage exemplify Aristotle's Doctrine of the Mean?
  • Courage embodies Aristotle's Doctrine of the Mean by representing a balanced approach to fear. It exists between the extremes of recklessness and cowardice, demonstrating how a virtuous individual reacts appropriately in the face of fear. This balance ensures that one can pursue noble actions without being paralyzed by fear or acting impulsively without thought.
• Discuss the role of courage as a moral virtue in achieving eudaimonia.
  • Courage plays a critical role in achieving eudaimonia by allowing individuals to face fears and challenges head-on. By acting courageously, individuals can uphold their values and principles even when faced with adversity. This commitment not only contributes to personal integrity but also fosters relationships and community well-being, both essential for flourishing as a human being.
• Evaluate how understanding courage can influence one's development of other moral virtues.
  • Understanding courage significantly impacts the development of other moral virtues by providing a framework for facing various life challenges. When individuals recognize that acting virtuously often requires courage, they become more inclined to practice other virtues such as honesty, integrity, and justice. Courage acts as a catalyst, encouraging individuals to strive for excellence in all areas of life, thus promoting overall character development and contributing to a fulfilling life.

Related terms

Virtue Ethics: A philosophical approach that emphasizes the role of character and virtue in moral philosophy rather than focusing solely on rules or consequences.

Phobos: The Greek word for fear, often referenced in discussions of courage as it relates to how individuals confront their fears.

Moral Exemplars: Individuals who embody virtues such as courage and serve as role models for ethical behavior in society.