The Thomistic Institute The Cardinal Virtues and Living Life Well I Prof. Raymond Hain
Jul 29, 2025
Raymond Hain, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Providence College, dives deep into the four cardinal virtues—prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. He explores their philosophical roots and relevance to living a flourishing life, incorporating insights from Plato, Cicero, and St. Thomas Aquinas. Hain draws connections between these virtues and themes from literature, including Tolkein's enchanting tale 'Smith of Wooten Major,' revealing how tales can embody moral lessons and the essence of character development.
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Prudence Sees The Big Picture
- Prudence is practical wisdom enabling us to choose what leads to true happiness here and now.
- Unlike craftiness, prudence sees the big picture and the means fitting into a flourishing life.
Omelas Story Illustrates Craftiness
- Ursula Le Guin's "The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas" illustrates craftiness tolerating evil for happiness.
- Those who accept the town's condition are crafty, unlike the prudent who see and avoid such trade-offs.
Justice and The Common Good
- Justice is a perpetual will to give others their due rooted in our social nature.
- True happiness is a common good, shared and deepened through community, not merely private possession.
