Neurobiology of hope

Introduction

The List of Virtues and Character Strengths was developed through the Values in Action (VIA) Classification by positive psychology researchers Martin Seligman and Christopher Peterson. The VIA Classification is a framework that identifies 24 universally valued character strengths which contribute to an individual’s flourishing and well-being. These strengths are categorized under six core virtues: wisdom, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence. The development of this list was based on ten criteria that reflect the universal nature and adaptability of human virtues across cultures.

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Ten Criteria for Identifying Virtues and Character Strengths

1. Trait-Like Characteristics
   The identified strengths are enduring and stable across situations and time. They are qualities that define a person’s character and are not transient behaviors.

2. Moral Value
   Each strength represents a positive moral quality that contributes to an individual's ethical behavior and societal well-being. They reflect universal ideals across cultures and societies.

3. Ubiquity Across Cultures
   The virtues and strengths must be found across different cultures and societies. For instance, virtues like courage and kindness are recognized globally, regardless of cultural background.

4. Value to Individuals and Society
   The strengths contribute to both personal growth and social harmony. They support individual development and promote positive interactions in social groups.

5. Existence of Different Manifestations
   The strength should have multiple expressions in real life. For example, courage can manifest as standing up for one’s beliefs or facing personal fears.

6. Proven Contributions to Well-Being
   Each strength is linked to positive outcomes, such as increased happiness, life satisfaction, and psychological resilience.

7. Measurability
   The strengths are measurable through objective criteria, and individuals can assess or develop them with tools like the VIA Inventory of Strengths.

8. Universality
   Virtues should be present in a variety of human conditions, such as being applicable to both children and adults or to people with diverse levels of education.

9. Innate Capacity
   Each strength should represent an innate human potential that can be nurtured and developed throughout life.

10. Virtue’s Positive Impact on Society
    The presence of these virtues in individuals results in positive social behavior, such as helping others, contributing to societal development, and fostering harmonious relationships.

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Conclusion

The ten criteria for identifying virtues and character strengths focus on universal values that promote human flourishing and contribute to individual and collective well-being. These criteria guide the creation of a model of character strengths that can be nurtured, measured, and applied to enhance personal growth and societal harmony.