Which Cardinal Virtue helps us have right reason and put it into action?

• A. Justice
• B. Prudence
• C. Fortitude
• D. Temperance

Answer: (B)

Prudence is the virtue that gives us right reason in how we act. It involves practical judgment—thinking through what is truly good in a situation, weighing options and consequences, and choosing the best course of action. Prudence guides how we apply moral principles in everyday life and helps coordinate the other virtues so our actions are wise and effective. In this sense, it’s often described as right reason in action. The other cardinal virtues—justice, fortitude, and temperance—describe important dispositions too, but they focus on giving others their due, enduring difficulties, or moderating desires rather than providing the practical guidance for choosing the right action in a given moment.