Failure seems to be regarded as the one unpardonable…
“Failure seems to be regarded as the one unpardonable crime, success as the all-redeeming virtue, the acquisition of wealth as the single worthy aim of life. Ten years ago such revelations as these of the Erie Railway would have sent a shudder through the community, and would have placed a stigma on every man who had had to do them. Now they merely incite others to surpass by yet bolder outrages and more corrupt combinations.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Society glorifies success and wealth while condemning failure, yet this moral double standard fuels greater corruption and reckless ambition.
In simple terms: Success praised, failure condemned, leading to more corruption.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge harmful value judgments.
Themes
ethics
societal values
corruption
ambition
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political reform
- business ethics training
- public accountability
- media criticism
Key Concepts
Moral relativism
social pressure
economic incentives
Questions to Reflect On
- How do cultural narratives shape our definition of success?
- What alternatives to wealth‑centric values could reduce corruption?
A Different Perspective
The view may overlook systemic factors that limit individual agency.