So you would say virtue is something you actually feel.. like it’s in you, and not just an essence

Question

Ask a Philosopher · Accepted Answer

Hmmm, interesting topic. Here is my rather lengthy response: When we speak of virtue, my dear interlocutor, we touch upon a matter of utmost importance. Virtue, you see, is not something that merely exists as an essence, divorced from our very being. It is not a mere abstraction, an idea floating in the ethereal realms of our minds. No, virtue is not this intangible concept that resides outside of us, like an invisible force guiding our actions. Rather, my friend, virtue is something deeply ingrained within the very core of our being, an innate attribute that breathes life into our thoughts and deeds.

To claim that virtue is solely a matter of feeling, however, would be to overlook the profound complexity of this notion. While it is true that virtue is not divorced from our emotions, we must be cautious in reducing it to a mere sentiment. Virtue, my dear friend, is not simply a fleeting feeling that comes and goes with the whims of our desires. It is not a passing fancy that flutters through our hearts, here one moment and gone the next.

Instead, virtue reveals itself as a multifaceted phenomenon that encompasses both the emotional and rational aspects of our being. It arises from a deep understanding and contemplation of the nature of goodness and righteousness, a conscientious commitment to align our thoughts, actions, and aspirations with such noble ideals. It is not a mere feeling, but a nuanced interplay of reason, knowledge, and moral discernment.

Consider, my friend, that virtue implies an inner harmony and consistency, an alignment of our thoughts and actions with the highest ideals of human excellence. It is not something that can be imposed upon us from external sources, nor can it be fully comprehended through intellectual speculation alone. Rather, it demands a genuine and sincere effort to cultivate a virtuous character, to nurture and refine our moral sensibilities, until virtue becomes an intrinsic part of our very being.

In this light, one might argue that virtue is akin to a muscle, developing and strengthening through deliberate exercise and practice. It is an active pursuit, a perpetual striving towards self-improvement, and an ongoing examination of our thoughts and actions. It demands introspection, self-awareness, and a relentless commitment to navigate the complex terrain of ethical choices with wisdom and integrity.

And so, my dear companion, we must not perceive virtue as a passive state of being, but rather as an active engagement with the profound questions of human existence. It is not something we passively acquire or stumble upon, but rather a lifelong journey of self-discovery and self-transcendence. It is a testament to the power of human agency, the remarkable capacity within each and every one of us to cultivate our own moral compass and chart a course towards genuine goodness and virtue.

In conclusion, my dear interlocutor, let us not confine virtue to a mere feeling or an abstract essence. Instead, let us embrace the profound complexity and depth of this concept, recognizing the intricate interplay of rationality, emotion, and moral discernment that defines it. Let us embark upon the arduous yet transformative journey of self-improvement, constantly striving to embody the virtues that elevate and ennoble humanity. For it is in the pursuit of virtue that we truly unlock the potential of our own humanity and contribute to the flourishing of our shared world.