Skip to content

Virtues are lost in self interest as rivers are lost in…

“Virtues are lost in self interest as rivers are lost in the sea.” quote by Francois de la Rochefoucauld
Download Open image
““Virtues are lost in self interest as rivers are lost in the sea.””

Francois 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.

Self‑interest erodes moral virtues just as rivers disappear into the sea, losing their distinct identity.

In simple terms: Self‑interest erases virtue.

Key Takeaway

Guard against selfish motives.

Themes

morality self‑interest virtue society

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • personal relationships
  • business negotiations

Key Concepts

philosophy human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize when self‑interest is overriding your values?
  • What practices help preserve virtue in daily life?
A Different Perspective

Virtues can persist if cultivated deliberately.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Francois de la Rochefoucauld

Explore all 1,134 Francois de la Rochefoucauld quotes

More Character quotes

Browse all 32,707 Character quotes