TABLE 1.

Core Strengths of Human Goodness and Character as Recognized by Positive Psychology

Core Strength	Components
1. Wisdom and knowledge—cognitive strengths that entail the acquisition of knowledge	Creativity; curiosity; judgment and open-mindedness; love of learning; perspective
2. Courage—emotional strengths that involve the exercise of will to accomplish goals in the face of opposition, external or internal	Bravery; perseverance; honesty; zest
3. Humanity—interpersonal strengths that involve tending and befriending	Capacity to love and be loved; kindness; social intelligence
4. Justice—civic strengths that underlie healthy community life	Teamwork; fairness; leadership
5. Temperance—strengths that protect against excess	Forgiveness and mercy; modesty; prudence; self-regulation
6. Transcendence—strengths that forge connections to the larger universe and provide meaning	Appreciation of beauty and excellence; gratitude; hope; humor; religiousness and spirituality

Source. Peterson and Seligman.⁷⁹