Single Idea 2672

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / c. Motivation for virtue]

Full Idea

None of the virtues can exist unless they are disinterested, for virtue driven to duty by pleasure as a sort of pay is not virtue at all but a deceptive sham and pretence of virtue.

Gist of Idea

Virtues must be very detached, to avoid being motivated by pleasure

Source

M. Tullius Cicero (Academica [c.45 BCE], II.xlvi.140)

Book Reference

Cicero: 'De Natura Deorum and Academica (XIX)', ed/tr. Rackham,H. [Harvard Loeb 1933], p.649