To withhold deserved praise lest it should make its object…
“To withhold deserved praise lest it should make its object conceited is as dishonest as to withhold payment of a just debt lest your creditor should spend the money badly.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Withholding praise to avoid pride is as dishonest as withholding payment to avoid wasteful spending.
In simple terms: Avoiding praise to prevent pride is as dishonest as avoiding payment to prevent waste.
Key Takeaway
Give honest praise and fulfill obligations responsibly.
Themes
ethics
pride
honesty
Mood
reflective
instructive
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- workplace feedback
- financial transactions
- teaching
- leadership
Key Concepts
integrity
social responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- When is praise necessary even if it risks pride?
- How do you balance honesty with kindness?
A Different Perspective
May be overly rigid; sometimes praise can motivate.