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When our passive feelings are almost always so sordid and…

“When our passive feelings are almost always so sordid and so selfish, how comes it that our active principles should often be so generous and so noble?” quote by Adam Smith
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““When our passive feelings are almost always so sordid and so selfish, how comes it that our active principles should often be so generous and so noble?””

Adam Smith

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote contrasts selfish passive feelings with generous active principles, highlighting a tension between inner motives and outward actions.

In simple terms: Passive selfishness vs. active generosity.

Key Takeaway

Align actions with values.

Themes

ethics human nature motivation

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • personal development
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

selfishness generosity principles

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your generosity?
  • Can you reconcile inner feelings with actions?
A Different Perspective

Active generosity can be insincere if not reflected internally.

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