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 admitted for a moment.””
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.
Refuse harmful acts, even for friends.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- business decisions
- legal judgments
Key Concepts
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?
Friends may pressure you, making refusal difficult.