The most ingenious men continually pretend to condemn…
“The most ingenious men continually pretend to condemn tricking--but this is often done that they may use it more conveniently themselves, when some great occasion or interest offers itself to them.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People often publicly denounce deceit while secretly exploiting it when it benefits them.
In simple terms: Public condemnation hides private use of trickery.
Key Takeaway
Watch for hypocrisy in moral judgments.
Themes
hypocrisy
power
ethics
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
aphilosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- business deals
- legal strategy
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Moral psychology
self-interest
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you seen someone condemn what they later practice?
- What motivates this double standard?
A Different Perspective
Such behavior can erode trust and credibility.