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Terrible is the temptation to be good.

“Terrible is the temptation to be good.” quote by Bertolt Brecht
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“Terrible is the temptation to be good.”

Bertolt Brecht

About This Quote

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

The desire to act morally can become a strong, almost compulsive urge, sometimes feeling burdensome.

In simple terms: Moral urges can feel overwhelming.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and balance moral impulses.

Themes

morality temptation inner conflict

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal decision making
  • leadership
  • social activism
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

existentialism ethical pressure

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate genuine moral duty from compulsive pressure?
  • When does moral striving become counterproductive?
A Different Perspective

The temptation may conflict with personal well‑being or realistic constraints.

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