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I would be virtuous for my own sake, though nobody were to…

“I would be virtuous for my own sake, though nobody were to know it; as I would be clean for my own sake, though nobody were to see me.” quote by Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury
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“I would be virtuous for my own sake, though nobody were to know it; as I would be clean for my own sake, though nobody were to see me.”

Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury

About This Quote

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

Virtue and purity should be pursued for their own sake, regardless of external recognition.

In simple terms: Do good for its own sake, not for applause.

Key Takeaway

Practice integrity even when unseen.

Themes

ethics integrity self‑discipline humility

Mood

thoughtful determined reflective

Type

philosophical ethical personal

When to use this quote

  • daily work
  • private relationships
  • community service
  • personal habits

Key Concepts

virtue ethics self‑motivation inner morality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions do you take when no one watches?
  • How does private virtue shape public character?
A Different Perspective

Societal pressure may still tempt compromise.

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