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Nobody deserves to be praised for goodness unless he is…

“Nobody deserves to be praised for goodness unless he is strong enough to be bad.” quote by François de La Rochefoucauld
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““Nobody deserves to be praised for goodness unless he is strong enough to be bad.””

François de La Rochefoucauld

About This Quote

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

Goodness is praised only if one can also be bad when needed.

In simple terms: True virtue includes strength to act badly if required.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate moral flexibility.

Themes

morality strength dual nature

Mood

reflective cautionary

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • leadership decisions
  • legal judgments
  • personal boundaries
  • political strategy

Key Concepts

ethical dilemmas power dynamics self‑control

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it necessary to act contrary to goodness?
  • How to balance strength and kindness?
A Different Perspective

Might be misinterpreted as cynicism.

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