Skip to content

What seems to be generosity is often no more than…

“What seems to be generosity is often no more than disguised ambition, which overlooks a small interest in order to secure a great one.” quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
Download Open image
“What seems to be generosity is often no more than disguised ambition, which overlooks a small interest in order to secure a great one.”

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.

Generosity can mask self‑interest, where a small personal gain is sacrificed to achieve a larger, selfish goal.

In simple terms: Generosity may hide hidden ambitions.

Key Takeaway

Question motives behind giving.

Themes

ethics human nature motivation

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • charitable acts
  • business negotiations
  • political lobbying

Key Concepts

self‑interest social behavior psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you seen true altruism?
  • How can you discern hidden motives?
A Different Perspective

Not all generosity is insincere; context matters.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Francois de La Rochefoucauld

Explore all 1,134 Francois de La Rochefoucauld quotes

More Ambition quotes

Browse all 4,601 Ambition quotes