Cicero On Duty

Cicero’s definition of duty is a term in which in this course, is far reached than what we would have ever thought duty would stand for. Defining duty can be said to be a commitment or obligation to someone or something that causes them to pursue a certain action. Duty is split into two parts which consist of dealing with what is the “supreme” good and second, practicing rules which are strictly regulated in all means of daily life. Another classification of duties are duties which are middle or complete. Complete duty is link to being what is “right”. Middle duty is the reasoning behind why has it been done. When Cicero writes about individual activism we consider the duties that are honorable and dishonorable. What is honorable or dishonorable? People’s spirits are often pulled between opposing opinions. The individual then has to see whether or not it will offer him an advantage in life. Cicero discusses the major principal thought on duty which is based on a conservative standpoint. The different forms of duty happened due to human nature. Civic duty takes different forms. Civic duty will always leads back to the people that live in the society. Questions asked is what do we owe? What can I do? Cicero writes how the nature of a person will influence his decisions based on what is the “honorable” thing to do at a certain time. A individual showing wisdom towards the publics concern is part of the action. Cicero uses a strong example when he speaks about promising to be at a appointment but not showing up due to someone close to you getting ill. He explains how not making the appointment would not be contrary to your duty because you abandoned what you promised. This shows your neighbor that your character can’t be trusted. The fellowship you keep with the community is a responsibility. Fellowship is so important to the form of civic duty according to cicero. He explains how one should be able to share, give advice, and cause no evil to their neighbor. Justice