The wise man does nothing but what can be done openly and…
“The wise man does nothing but what can be done openly and without falseness, nor does he do anything whereby he may involve himself in any wrong-doing, even where he may escape notice. For he is guilty in his own eyes before being so in the eyes of others; and the publicity of his crime does not bring him more shame than his own consciousness of it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A wise person acts transparently, avoids wrongdoing, and feels personal guilt before public shame.
In simple terms: Act openly, avoid hidden sins.
Key Takeaway
Maintain integrity and self-accountability.
Themes
ethics
integrity
self-awareness
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- business decisions
- personal relationships
- public service
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
personal conscience
Questions to Reflect On
- What hidden actions trouble your conscience?
- How can transparency prevent wrongdoing?
A Different Perspective
Self‑judgment may be harsher than external criticism.