Definition of Prudence

• Ability to govern and discipline oneself using reason and self-control.

• Merriam-Webster Definition: Ability to restrain oneself.

Etymology of Prudence

• Derived from Old French "prudence" and Latin "prudentia" (foresight, sagacity).

Nature of Prudence

• Prudence as an Intellectual and Moral Virtue

  • Intellectual Virtues: Acquired through practice (e.g., understanding, reasoning).

  • Moral Virtues: Governs actions towards a good end.

• Prudence as Regulatory Framework

  • Necessary for judging virtuous vs. vicious actions, relevant at specific times and contexts.

• Prudence in Action

  • It is about doing the right thing, at the right time, and in the right place.

Prudence and Cautiousness

• Synonymous with cautiousness; implies reluctance to take unnecessary risks.

• Role of prudence: weigh consequences and avoid hasty decisions.

Decision-Making Guidelines

• Slow down decision-making; ask key questions regarding urgency, alternatives, information, and potential consequences.

Historical Perspective on Prudence

• Ancient Greeks and Thomas Aquinas viewed prudence as the foundation and guiding principle of all virtues.

Integral Parts of Prudence

• First Principles of Practical Reason:

  • Major component is "Synderesis"

  • Inclinations towards human goods that are fundamental to human nature.

• Key Elements:

  • Memoria (Memory): Learning from experience.

  • Docilitas (Docility): Openness to learn from others.

  • Intelligentia (Understanding): Knowledge of first principles.

  • Sollertia (Shrewdness): Quick-witted evaluation of situations.

  • Ratio (Reasoning): Effective reasoning and logical comparisons.

  • Providentia (Foresight): Estimating potential effects of actions.