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There are four cardinal virtues: prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude.
They are called cardinal (Latin: cardo, hinge) virtues because they are hinges on which all moral virtues depend. These are also called moral (Latin: mores, fixed values) because they govern our actions, order our passions, and guide our conduct according to faith and reason.
The cardinal or moral virtues are natural, because they can be achieved through human effort, aided by grace.
The cardinal virtues are often paired with the theological virtues.
The cardinal virtues are distinguished from the capital virtues.
Also see virtues.
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