Skip to content

DECALOGUE, n. A series of commandments, ten in number…

“DECALOGUE, n. A series of commandments, ten in number - just enough to permit an intelligent selection for observance, but not enough to embarrass the choice.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
Download Open image
“DECALOGUE, n. A series of commandments, ten in number - just enough to permit an intelligent selection for observance, but not enough to embarrass the choice.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

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

He defines a decalogue as ten commandments, enough for thoughtful choice but not overwhelming.

In simple terms: Ten rules allow selective observance without overload.

Key Takeaway

Use concise guidelines wisely.

Themes

philosophy ethics decision making

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • personal decision frameworks
  • organizational policies
  • educational curricula

Key Concepts

selection theory cognitive load minimalism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria determine the right number of guidelines?
  • How to handle exceptions?
A Different Perspective

Too few rules may omit important nuances.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ambrose Bierce

Explore all 1,157 Ambrose Bierce quotes

More Choices quotes

Browse all 11,466 Choices quotes