Civic Virtue and the American Founding
Virtue comes from the Latin word "virtus." (VIR-tuhs (pronounced veer-tuhs).
It means excellence in moral, social, and intellectual qualities.
The Greek word aretḗ means “excellence” of any kind.
Virtue is a cornerstone of human existence and embodies the highest ethical standards and character.
It involves choosing actions that align with high moral standards, and this is true even when these choices are hard.
Making such choices a habit makes virtue part of one’s character. It fosters personal growth and contributes to a harmonious society.
Practicing virtue also has personal benefits. It brings increased self-respect and a sense of purpose. This can be a powerful motivator for individuals.
Vice is the opposite of virtue. It is marked by habitual wrongdoing that harms people and society.
Vices like lying, greed, and cowardice erode personal integrity and weaken society's moral fabric.
Virtue builds character and helps communities.
Vice undermines trust and cooperation. It leads to discord and instability.
The Pillar of a Stable Society
Understanding "civic virtue" begins with grasping the essence of "civic."
The term "civic" relates to citizens, their rights, responsibilities, and participation in their community and society. Therefore, civic virtue embodies the qualities and behaviors that enable individuals to contribute positively to the common welfare and overall functioning of their society.
Civic virtue is essential for a stable and flourishing society. It involves dedicating oneself to the common welfare, even at personal expense. Civic virtue includes honesty, responsibility, and a commitment to the public good. It's the foundation of good citizenship and effective governance.
Classical philosophy and the ideals of the Enlightenment inspired the American Founders. They stressed the importance of civic virtue in keeping a republic.
They believed that a healthy democracy depended on virtuous citizens. These citizens prioritize the common good over their own interests.
As James Madison articulated in Federalist No. 55, "As there is a degree of depravity in mankind which requires a certain degree of circumspection and distrust, so there are other qualities in human nature which justify a certain portion of esteem and confidence. Republican government presupposes the existence of these qualities in a higher degree than any other form."
Madison and the Founders recognized that humans are flawed. But they also believed that we are capable of great things.
In this quote, he recognizes our fallen nature but also that some qualities “justify a certain portion of esteem and confidence.”
Those qualities are civic virtue.
And this is what is required in a republican form of government.
Civic Virtue and the American Founding
During the American Founding period, the need for civic virtue was clear. It was necessary to prevent the descent into authoritarian rule.
The Founders said that a free society depended on the virtuous behavior of its citizens. They argued that political freedom needs people to embody justice.
And citizens need wisdom, courage, and temperance in their actions.
Prominent figures, such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams, often wrote about the vital role of virtue in public life. They argued that citizens need civic virtue.
Without it, they can't govern themselves well.
This leads to corruption and tyranny.
For instance, in his Farewell Address, Washington stressed the importance of morality and religion. He said, “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.”
While religion is not necessarily a component of civic virtue, he saw this as the basis for justice and necessary for good government.
The Stoic Influence on American Founders
The American Founders drew inspiration from Stoic philosophy. The Stoics emphasized the link between personal virtue and societal well-being. They taught that personal virtues were not just private; they had big public effects.
This idea resonated with the Founders, who saw civic virtue as vital for maintaining liberty and justice in the new nation.
The influence of Stoic virtues is evident in foundational American documents. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution reflect justice, wisdom, and moderation.
These documents advocate for a government that protects the rights of all citizens and promotes their welfare.
The Path Forward
Civic virtue is central to both personal excellence and society's health.
Its roots are found in the philosophy of Greece and Rome and the teachings of the Judeo-Christian tradition.
Civic virtue was at the heart of the American founding.
This commitment is vital for a healthy republican government.
As Ben Franklin stated, “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom.”
Laws cannot force people to do what is right.
Laws provide freedom for people to do with it what they want.
Civic virtue provides the path for exercising that freedom.
Choosing the higher road is difficult and lonely. But when we reach the summit, our lives will have meaning and purpose.
We will know that a virtuous life is a life worth living.
Thanks for reading!
Best,
David
Founder, The Civics Academy
P.S. - Download the Parent’s Guide to Teaching Civic Virtue at Home