Obstinacy, sir, is certainly a great vice; and in the…
“Obstinacy, sir, is certainly a great vice; and in the changeful state of political affairs it is frequently the cause of great mischief. It happens, however, very unfortunately, that almost the whole line of the great and masculine virtues--constancy, gravity, magnanimity, fortitude, fidelity, and firmness--are closely allied to this disagreeable quality, of which you have so just an abhorrence; and in their excess all these virtues very easily fall into it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Excessive stubbornness harms politics, yet it closely resembles many valued virtues, making it hard to avoid.
In simple terms: Stubbornness can be both a vice and a hidden part of virtues.
Key Takeaway
Recognize when firmness becomes harmful.
Themes
politics
virtue
stubbornness
excess
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- leadership decisions
- conflict resolution
- policy making
Key Concepts
ethics
human nature
leadership
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance firmness with flexibility?
- When does steadfastness become detrimental?
A Different Perspective
Virtues can blur into vices when taken to extremes.