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Because impudence is a vice, it does not follow that…

“Because impudence is a vice, it does not follow that modesty is a virtue; it is built upon shame, a passion in our nature, and may be either good or bad according to the actions performed from that motive.” quote by Bernard de Mandeville
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“Because impudence is a vice, it does not follow that modesty is a virtue; it is built upon shame, a passion in our nature, and may be either good or bad according to the actions performed from that motive.”

Bernard de Mandeville

About This Quote

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

Modesty stems from shame, not virtue; its moral value depends on actions it motivates.

In simple terms: Modesty is rooted in shame, not virtue.

Key Takeaway

Assess motives behind modest behavior.

Themes

ethics modesty shame motivation

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • parenting
  • personal development

Key Concepts

virtue ethics psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does modesty hinder progress?
  • How to channel shame constructively?
A Different Perspective

Modesty can inhibit honest expression.

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