Question 141 — Temperance

In the next place we must consider temperance: (1) temperance itself; (2) its parts; (3) its precepts. With regard to temperance we must consider (1) temperance itself; (2) the contrary vices.

Under the first head there are eight points of inquiry:

(1) Whether temperance is a virtue?

• (2) Whether it is a special virtue?
• (3) Whether it is only about desires and pleasures?
• (4) Whether it is only about pleasures of touch?
• (5) Whether it is about pleasures of taste, as such, or only as a kind of touch?
• (6) What is the rule of temperance?
• (7) Whether it is a cardinal, or principal, virtue?
• (8) Whether it is the greatest of virtues?