Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is divided into three books. In the first book, he discusses the nature of moral rightness. For Cicero, an action is morally right if and only if it is in accordance with the laws of Nature. All of our moral obligations arise from the demands of four virtues. The virtue of wisdom requires that we pursue truth and knowledge. The virtue of justice requires giving each person his due, and treating others with the generosity that is required to facilitate social cooperation. The virtue of courage requires developing a "noble and invincible spirit" that does not give in to fear of danger. Finally, the virtue of temperance requires us to exercise moderation and self-control in matters relating to our bodily appetites. These four virtues together comprise the virtue of propriety. In Cicero's view, all that is proper is morally right, and all that is morally right is proper.
In the second book, Cicero discusses expedience, which concerns matters related to the comforts of life, including wealth, influence, and enjoyment. Cicero argues that the virtues mentioned in book one contribute to expedience. Justice, for example, is expedient because it is necessary for social cooperation, which benefits all parties. In the third book, Cicero argues further that the requirements of moral rightness and expedience can never diverge. Indeed, he suggests, even considering the possibility that they could diverge is immoral. He argues for this claim on the basis of his views concerning the laws of Nature. Immorality, Cicero claims, is repugnant to Nature. But because expedience is in accordance with Nature, expedience can never be immoral and immorality can never be expedient. Furthermore, acting immorally debases the moral character of the agent, which Cicero claims is the worst punishment of all. Cicero concludes his discussion with a number of examples intended to show that what is expedient always coincides with what is morally right.
-According to Cicero, any defect known to the vender must be:
A) made known to the state.
B) paid for.
C) kept to from the purchaser.
D) made known to the purchaser
Correct Answer:
Verified
Q16: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Q17: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Q18: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Q19: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Q20: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Q22: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Q23: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Q24: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Q25: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Q26: Cicero: On Duties
Cicero's discussion of duties is
Unlock this Answer For Free Now!
View this answer and more for free by performing one of the following actions
Scan the QR code to install the App and get 2 free unlocks
Unlock quizzes for free by uploading documents