Virtue:
Equity
Other names:
"Epikea"
Definition:
To go beyond what is specifically required by the law, when necessary
Advice:
Empirical Research:
Case examples:
Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Further reading:
Vices opposed:
Case Study
ReplyDeleteHeinz Ketchup founder H. J. Heinz' fledgling company suffered grievously during the Panic of 1875, also known as the Great Depression of the 19th Century. Heinz was abandoned by his former business partners, the Noble brothers, was falsely accused of fraud and was forced to declare bankruptcy and default on his credit loans. One of the many virtues that Heinz displayed during this period was the virtue of equity, going beyond the strict requirements of the law in his commitment to justice. "Christmas week became one of soul searching. Sick and depressed, Heinz met his obligations at Sunday School, but struggled to accomplish anything else. His mother helped to hold him up and pushed him to look at what could be done. Heinz determined to pay all creditors back, although it would not be required legally. His reputation and moral obligations had priority in his life. He started a ledger of what was owed and to whom. The accounts were adjusted for his three-eights share in the company. The Noble brothers appeared to be satisfied with the lifting of legal obligations by the bankruptcy. His plan was to pay everyone, which he would live up to. Maybe more amazing was that he found forgiveness so he could move on. Instead of personal resentments, he would put that energy in meeting what he owed. Years later, Heinz would actually help one of the very creditors that had attacked him." (Skrebac, Jr., H. J. Heinz, pp. 64-65)