Cheating is a sin, but honest cunning is simply prudence…
“Cheating is a sin, but honest cunning is simply prudence. It is a virtue. To be sure, it has a likeness to roguery, but that cannot be helped. He who has not learned to practice it is a fool.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Cunning, when honest, is a prudent virtue akin to roguery but necessary for success.
In simple terms: Honest cleverness is a useful skill.
Key Takeaway
Use cleverness wisely.
Themes
ethics
strategy
pragmatism
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- political maneuvering
- personal problem solving
Key Concepts
philosophy
morality
virtue
Questions to Reflect On
- When is cleverness ethical?
- What risks accompany strategic deceit?
A Different Perspective
Cunning can erode trust if misused.