Full Idea
It is untrue to urge that, since courage is a virtue, we ought to act courageously. We feel an obligation to act, but not from a certain desire. The action is done from obligation, so isn't an act of courage. ..In fact, virtue is no basis for morality.
Gist of Idea
Virtues won't generate an obligation, so it isn't a basis for morality
Source
H.A. Prichard (Does moral phil rest on a mistake? [1912])
Book Reference
Prichard,H.A.: 'Moral Writings' [OUP 2002], p.17
A Reaction
One of the few interesting and direct attacks on virtue theory, before its modern revival. Prichard urges a perception of what is valuable (or good) as the basis for obligation and right action. He is right that values come first, in virtue and elsewhere.
Related Idea
Idea 497 Be virtuous from duty, not from fear [Democritus (attr)]