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I conclude, then, that the plea of having acted in the…

“I conclude, then, that the plea of having acted in the interests of a friend is not a valid excuse for a wrong action. . . . We may then lay down this rule of friendship--neither ask nor consent to do what is wrong. For the plea "for friendship's sake" is a discreditable one, and not to be…” quote by Cicero
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““I conclude, then, that the plea of having acted in the interests of a friend is not a valid excuse for a wrong action. . . . We may then lay down this rule of friendship--neither ask nor consent to do what is wrong. For the plea "for friendship's sake" is a discreditable one, and not to be admitted for a moment.””

Cicero

About This Quote

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

Friendship does not justify immoral actions; one must refuse wrongdoing even for friends.

In simple terms: Friends cannot excuse bad deeds.

Key Takeaway

Refuse harmful acts, even for friends.

Themes

ethics friendship responsibility

Mood

reflective serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • business decisions
  • legal judgments

Key Concepts

moral philosophy duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you identify a time you ignored a bad act for a friend?
  • How would you set boundaries without harming the friendship?
A Different Perspective

Friends may pressure you, making refusal difficult.

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