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Personal prudence, even when dictated by quite other than…

“Personal prudence, even when dictated by quite other than selfish considerations, surely is no special virtue in a military man; while an excessive love of glory, impassioning a less burning impulse, the honest sense of duty, is the first.” quote by Herman Melville
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“Personal prudence, even when dictated by quite other than selfish considerations, surely is no special virtue in a military man; while an excessive love of glory, impassioning a less burning impulse, the honest sense of duty, is the first.”

Herman Melville

About This Quote

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

Military virtue isn’t unique; true honor lies in duty and modest ambition rather than excessive glory.

In simple terms: Duty and modesty outweigh glory.

Key Takeaway

Value duty over fame.

Themes

honor duty humility

Mood

reflective balanced

Type

ethical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • leadership training
  • career counseling
  • team management

Key Concepts

military ethics virtue ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is ambition beneficial?
  • How to balance duty with personal drive?
A Different Perspective

Glory can sometimes motivate positive action.

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