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If your desire for 'good' is based on greed, it is not…

“If your desire for 'good' is based on greed, it is not good, but greed.” quote by Idries Shah
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“If your desire for 'good' is based on greed, it is not good, but greed.”

Idries Shah

About This Quote

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

If the motive for good is greed, the act is not truly good but selfish, highlighting intention over outcome.

In simple terms: Good driven by greed isn’t good.

Key Takeaway

Examine motives behind actions.

Themes

motivation ethics greed

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • charitable work
  • business decisions
  • personal choices
  • policy making

Key Concepts

intention morality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your altruism?
  • Can selfish motives coexist with good deeds?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex motivations.

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