Phronēsis (φρόνησις)

phronēsis • fro-NAY-sis
Greek Ethics Browse P

Meaning

Practical wisdom; the ability to navigate complex situations with virtue.

In practice: The cardinal virtue of knowing what is good, bad, and indifferent.

Examples & notes

  • Phronēsis allows the Stoic to apply abstract principles to daily life.
  • It is the foundation of the other three cardinal virtues.

Seen in

Aristotle Epictetus

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