What do you consider to be the greatest social virtue? In…
““What do you consider to be the greatest social virtue? In private conversation Evstafi Ivanovitch once told me that the greatest social virtue might be considered to be an ability to get money to spend. Also, my comrades used jestingly (yes, I know only jestingly) to propound the ethical maxim that a man ought never to let himself become a burden upon anyone. Well, I am a burden upon no one. It is my own crust of bread that I eat; and though that crust is but a poor one, and sometimes actually a maggoty one, it has at least been EARNED, and therefore, is being put to a right and lawful use. What therefore, ought I to do?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker questions the highest moral virtue, suggesting it may be the ability to earn and spend money responsibly, avoiding becoming a burden to others.
In simple terms: Earned work and self‑reliance are moral duties.
Key Takeaway
Earn, then use responsibly.
Themes
ethics
self‑reliance
social responsibility
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
literary
When to use this quote
- employment
- personal budgeting
- charitable giving
- community support
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
economic independence
burden of dependency
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to be a burden?
- How can wealth be used ethically?
A Different Perspective
Self‑reliance may ignore systemic inequities and collective aid.