Single Idea 23182

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / i. Absolute virtues]

Full Idea

There must be one supreme virtue essentially distinct from every other virtue, which directs all the virtues to the common good, and this virtue is legal justice.

Gist of Idea

Legal justice is supreme, because it directs the other virtues to the common good

Source

Thomas Aquinas (Summa Theologicae [1265], II-II Q58 6)

Book Reference

Aquinas,Thomas: 'On Law, Morality and Politics', ed/tr. Baumgarth,W. /Regan R. [Hackett 1988], p.154


A Reaction

This concept of legal justice is underpinned, for Aquinas, by the concept of natural law, which has divine backing. Positive law could hardly fulfil such a major role, given that it could be corrupt.

Related Idea

Idea 23181 All acts of virtue relate to justice, which is directed towards the common good [Aquinas]