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Virtue consists, not in abstaining from vice, but in not…

“Virtue consists, not in abstaining from vice, but in not desiring it.” quote by George Bernard Shaw
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“Virtue consists, not in abstaining from vice, but in not desiring it.”

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Virtue is not just avoiding vice, but not craving it.

In simple terms: Goodness means not wanting bad things.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate desire for good.

Themes

morality self‑control desire

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • spiritual practice
  • habit formation

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What cravings hinder your virtue?
  • How can you shift desire toward good?
A Different Perspective

May overlook external influences.

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