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Money is both the generation and corruption of purchased…

“Money is both the generation and corruption of purchased honor; honor is both the child and slave of potent money: the credit which honor hath lost, money hath found. When honor grew mercenary, money grew honorable. The way to be truly noble is to contemn both.” quote by Francis Quarles
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“Money is both the generation and corruption of purchased honor; honor is both the child and slave of potent money: the credit which honor hath lost, money hath found. When honor grew mercenary, money grew honorable. The way to be truly noble is to contemn both.”

Francis Quarles

About This Quote

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

Money corrupts honor, and honor serves money; true nobility rejects both.

In simple terms: Money and honor corrupt each other; be noble by rejecting both.

Key Takeaway

Seek virtue beyond material and social status.

Themes

corruption virtue materialism

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • personal ethics
  • corporate culture

Key Concepts

ethics philosophy social hierarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can one truly live without regard for money or honor?
  • What does nobility mean today?
A Different Perspective

Rejecting both may be impractical.

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