Single Idea 22350

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / j. Unity of virtue]

Full Idea

It would be impossible to have only one virtue, unless it were a very trivial one such as thrift.

Gist of Idea

Only trivial virtues can be possessed on their own

Source

Iris Murdoch (The Sovereignty of Good [1970], III)

Book Reference

Murdoch,Iris: 'The Sovereignty of Good' [RKP 1974], p.95


A Reaction

A nicely nuanced commitment to the unity of virtue. You might exhibit courage alone in a brute animal way, but the sort of courage we all admire is part of more extended virtues.