Wealth and rank are what men desire, but unless they be…
“Wealth and rank are what men desire, but unless they be obtained in the right way they may not be possessed. Poverty and obscurity are what men detest; but unless prosperity be brought about in the right way, they are not to be abandoned.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Desiring wealth or status without moral means leads to loss; true prosperity must be earned righteously, and poverty should be avoided only through proper conduct.
In simple terms: Wealth must be earned rightly; otherwise it slips away.
Key Takeaway
Pursue success ethically.
Themes
ethics
ambition
social order
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
moral
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- financial planning
- public service
- personal reputation
Key Concepts
Confucianism
virtue ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure your goals align with your values?
- What ethical standards guide your pursuit of wealth?
A Different Perspective
Success without integrity can cause instability and loss of respect.