What is a virtue?

• A. A habit of doing what is good.
• B. A feeling of happiness.
• C. A rule you should never break.
• D. A natural talent.

Answer: (A)

A virtue is a well-formed habit of choosing what is good. It’s not a single act, nor just an emotion, nor a rule, nor a talent. Virtues grow from repeatedly doing the right thing and reflecting on it, so they become part of how you naturally respond in different situations. For example, honesty becomes a virtue when you tell the truth consistently because it’s the right thing to do, even when it’s hard. This makes virtue different from a feeling of happiness, which is temporary and not a reliable guide for character; from a rule you should never break, which prescribes behavior but isn’t about your disposition; and from a natural talent, which is an ability rather than a moral tendency.