Nothing is more contagious than example, and no man does…
“Nothing is more contagious than example, and no man does any exceeding good or exceeding ill but it spawns new deeds of the same kind. The good we imitate through emulation, the ill through the malignity of our nature, which shame keeps locked up, but example sets free.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People copy what they see; good or bad examples inspire similar actions in others.
In simple terms: Examples drive imitation of good or bad deeds.
Key Takeaway
Observe and model positive behavior.
Themes
imitation
morality
influence
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership training
- parenting
- team culture
- media campaigns
Key Concepts
social learning
ethical contagion
Questions to Reflect On
- What example do you set daily?
- How can you counter negative influences?
A Different Perspective
Positive examples may be scarce, limiting impact.