On Duties

How should we balance doing what is right with pursuing what benefits us? In this timeless letter to his son, the Roman statesman and philosopher Cicero distills the Stoic tradition into a practical guide for everyday moral life. He argues that genuine advantage can never conflict with true virtue—and that the honorable life is, in the end, the most beneficial one. Written in clear, accessible English that preserves the original’s philosophical depth, this edition invites modern readers to engage directly with Cicero’s ideas on justice, courage, temperance, and the duties we owe to family, country, and ourselves. Whether you are a student of ethics, a leader seeking moral clarity, or simply someone looking to live more thoughtfully, On Duties offers enduring wisdom for navigating the complexities of right action. Part of The Modern Wisdom Library.