Both vices may arise in part because it pursues the virtue of consensus: it tries to reach interest-rate decisions, for instance, without holding a formal vote.

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In his book The Virtue of Our Vices, philosophy professor Emrys Westacott argues for giving into our temptations when it comes to habits such as gossip, rudeness or snobbery.

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Qataris know the tale of their next door neighbour Dubai, who by opening its arms to the world subsumed traditional Emirati culture in favour of westernisation, and all the vices that came with it.

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That's significant because as important as the vice presidential pick actually is, the greater vices with which we must contend in contemporary politics are the tendency to demonize our opponents and to chase after the rapidly moving but ephemeral targets set by the social-networking shouting match.

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The Ombatse, which means "the time has come" in the Eggon language, say they are fighting against social vices such as alcohol and adultery.

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The Liberals have done many good things over the past 12 years, but have lately succumbed to the three familiar vices of a party that has been too long in power.

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Stanley had his vices and personal problems and did not live long after the trial, dying in his sleep at age 47 when his heart gave out in 2007.

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While these vices have not disappeared, Hollywood types these days are keener on keeping both their bodies and minds in shape.

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