
Justice
Dikaiosynê
Dikaiosynê in Greek, often translated as "justice," is one of the four cardinal virtues in Stoic philosophy, alongside wisdom, courage, and temperance. This concept, central to both Stoic thought and ancient Greek ethical theory, refers to the virtue that guides an individual's actions and decisions to be fair and equitable toward others.
In the Stoic context, justice represents moral rectitude in interactions with others and in society at large. It involves not only respecting the rights of others but also maintaining ethical behavior and seeking the common good.
According to the Stoics, justice is a manifestation of virtue that aims to align personal actions with universal principles of justice and fairness, thus requiring a deep awareness of ethical principles and a commitment to treating others with integrity and respect.
The Stoics teach that justice is not limited to visible actions but also encompasses just intentions and thoughts.
By integrating justice into their daily lives, individuals strive to create harmonious and equitable interactions with others, thereby contributing to a fairer and more balanced society. Thus, dikaiosynê is not only a personal virtue but also a fundamental foundation for harmonious coexistence within the community.