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That's wonderful. I do like a man that tells you right out…

“That's wonderful. I do like a man that tells you right out he’s looking out for himself. Don’t we all? I don’t trust a man that says he’s not. And the man that’s telling the truth when he says he’s not I distrust most of all, because he’s and ass and an ass that’s going contrary to the laws of…” quote by Dashiell Hammett
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““That's wonderful. I do like a man that tells you right out he’s looking out for himself. Don’t we all? I don’t trust a man that says he’s not. And the man that’s telling the truth when he says he’s not I distrust most of all, because he’s and ass and an ass that’s going contrary to the laws of nature.””

Dashiell Hammett

About This Quote

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

People who openly claim self‑interest are distrusted, especially when they claim honesty about it, because it seems selfish and contrary to natural law.

In simple terms: Self‑interest claims breed distrust.

Key Takeaway

Beware of overt self‑promotion.

Themes

trust self‑interest honesty human nature

Mood

skeptical thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • leadership
  • team dynamics

Key Concepts

psychology ethics social perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions build trust after self‑serving statements?
  • Can honesty about selfish motives ever be positive?
A Different Perspective

Trust can be rebuilt through consistent actions, not just words.

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