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The virtuous man is driven by responsibility, the…

“The virtuous man is driven by responsibility, the non-virtuous man is driven by profit.” quote by Confucius
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“The virtuous man is driven by responsibility, the non-virtuous man is driven by profit.”

Confucius

About This Quote

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

Distinguishes the virtuous, guided by duty, from the selfish, driven solely by profit.

In simple terms: Virtue follows duty; selfishness follows profit.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize responsibility over gain.

Themes

ethics leadership philosophy

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • business decisions
  • public policy
  • personal conduct
  • education
  • community service

Key Concepts

duty self‑interest moral character

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities define your actions?
  • Can profit and virtue coexist?
A Different Perspective

It may oversimplify complex motivations.

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