Kathēkon (καθῆκον)

kathēkon • kah-THAY-kon
Greek Ethics Browse K

Meaning

Appropriate action or duty; behavior consistent with nature.

In practice: The things we "ought" to do, like caring for parents or country.

Examples & notes

  • Performing one's kathēkon is the first step toward virtue.
  • Duties are determined by our various roles in society.

Seen in

Zeno of Citium Cicero

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