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It is wicked to withdraw from being useful to the needy…

“It is wicked to withdraw from being useful to the needy, and cowardly to give way to the worthless.” quote by Epictetus
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“It is wicked to withdraw from being useful to the needy, and cowardly to give way to the worthless.”

Epictetus

About This Quote

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

Neglecting those in need is immoral, while enabling the unworthy is also a moral failing.

In simple terms: Ignoring the needy is wrong; helping the unworthy is also wrong.

Key Takeaway

Balance compassion with discernment.

Themes

ethics responsibility compassion

Mood

reflective serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • charitable work
  • community service
  • resource allocation
  • volunteering

Key Concepts

Stoicism moral duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you decide who truly needs help?
  • When is it appropriate to set boundaries?
A Different Perspective

Moral judgments can be subjective and context‑dependent.

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