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If we are told a man is religious we still ask what are…

“If we are told a man is religious we still ask what are his morals? But if we hear at first that he has honest morals, and is a man of natural justice and good temper, we seldom think of the other question, whether he be religious and devout.” quote by Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury
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“If we are told a man is religious we still ask what are his morals? But if we hear at first that he has honest morals, and is a man of natural justice and good temper, we seldom think of the other question, whether he be religious and devout.”

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.

Moral character is judged before religious affiliation; honesty and justice matter more.

In simple terms: People judge morals before religion.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize integrity over labels.

Themes

morality religion character judgment

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • hiring
  • friendship
  • leadership
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

ethics social perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines a person's true character?
  • Can morality exist without religion?
A Different Perspective

Religious labels can still influence perception.

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