To act with doubleness towards a man whose own conduct was…
“To act with doubleness towards a man whose own conduct was double, was so near an approach to virtue that it deserved to be called by no meaner name than diplomacy.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Acting duplicitously toward a dishonest person is a near‑virtuous act, deserving the name diplomacy.
In simple terms: Diplomacy can involve strategic deceit toward the immoral.
Key Takeaway
Use tact wisely.
Themes
ethics
politics
virtue
diplomacy
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- political debates
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
strategic interaction
social conduct
Questions to Reflect On
- When is deception justified?
- What are the costs of diplomatic deceit?
A Different Perspective
Deception may erode trust.