Question 47 — Prudence, Considered in Itself

After treating of the theological virtues, we must in due sequence consider the cardinal virtues. In the first place we shall consider prudence in itself; second, its parts; third, the corresponding gift; fourth, the contrary vices; fifth, the precepts concerning prudence.

Under the first head there are sixteen points of inquiry:

(1) Whether prudence is in the will or in the reason?

• (2) If in the reason, whether it is only in the practical, or also in the speculative reason?
• (3) Whether it takes cognizance of singulars?
• (4) Whether it is virtue?
• (5) Whether it is a special virtue?
• (6) Whether it appoints the end to the moral virtues?
• (7) Whether it fixes the mean in the moral virtues?
• (8) Whether its proper act is command?
• (9) Whether solicitude or watchfulness belongs to prudence?
• (10) Whether prudence extends to the governing of many?
• (11) Whether the prudence which regards private good is the same in species as that which regards the common good?
• (12) Whether prudence is in subjects, or only in their rulers?
• (13) Whether prudence is in the wicked?
• (14) Whether prudence is in all good men?
• (15) Whether prudence is in us naturally?
• (16) Whether prudence is lost by forgetfulness?