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Of all the vices, avarice is the most generally detested…

“Of all the vices, avarice is the most generally detested; it is the effect of an avidity common to all men; it is because men hate those from whom they can expect nothing. The greedy misers rail at sordid misers.” quote by Claude Adrien Helvetius
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“Of all the vices, avarice is the most generally detested; it is the effect of an avidity common to all men; it is because men hate those from whom they can expect nothing. The greedy misers rail at sordid misers.”

Claude Adrien Helvetius

About This Quote

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

Avarice is despised because it reflects universal greed and the hatred of those who cannot benefit us.

In simple terms: Greed is widely hated.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and curb selfish desires.

Themes

greed hatred human nature

Mood

critical reflective

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal finance
  • relationships
  • political discourse
  • workplace dynamics

Key Concepts

avidity social aversion moral psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does personal gain affect your relationships?
  • When is self‑interest justified?
A Different Perspective

Greed can also motivate productive ambition.

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