There are two kinds of virtue: intellectual and moral We learn intellectual virtues by instruction, and we learn moral virtues by habit and constant practice We are all born with the potential to be morally virtuous, but it is only by behaving in the right way that we train ourselves to be virtuous

Knowledge is a virtue that we should know what is good for us Virtue is something that is good or something that is right If we have done something that is not right, for example, if the knowledge of power is used improperly, it is not because of the mere knowledge already

Virtues are acquired character traits; they are not inborn or learned through reason Unlike intellectual or physical characteristics, moral virtues are habits we acquire by practicing them and emulating exceptionally virtuous people or especially virtuous actions

Aristotelian virtue is defined in Book II of the Nicomachean Ethics as a purposive disposition, lying in a mean and being determined by the right reason As discussed above, virtue is a settled disposition It is also a purposive disposition A virtuous actor chooses virtuous action knowingly and for its own sake

Virtue, arete, or excellence is defined as a mean between two extremes of excess and defect in regard to a feeling or action as the practically wise person would determine it

Honesty, courage, compassion, generosity, fidelity, integrity, fairness, self-control, and prudence are all examples of virtues

A whole cluster of important human virtues—empathy, compassion, kindness, generosity, service, loyalty, patriotism (love of what is noble in one’s country), and forgiveness—make up the virtue of love

Although at first glance the gesture might not be about you, research shows that being kind to others can make us feel happier Cooperating with others or deciding to be generous activates an area of the brain called the striatum This area responds to things we find rewarding

How Do We Show Respect For Others?

1. Listen Listening to what another person has to say is a basic way to respect them
2. Affirm When we affirm someone, we’re giving evidence that they matter
3. Serve
4. Be Kind
5. Be Polite
6. Be Thankful