Cunning has only private selfish aims, and sticks at…
“Cunning has only private selfish aims, and sticks at nothing which may make them succeed. Discretion has large and extended views, and, like a well-formed eye, commands a whole horizon; cunning is a kind of shortsightedness, that discovers the minutest objects which are near at hand, but is not able to discern things at a distance.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Cunning focuses on immediate personal gain, lacking long‑term vision, while discretion sees the broader picture and plans ahead.
In simple terms: Cunning is short‑sighted; discretion sees far.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate broad perspective over narrow self‑interest.
Themes
strategy
vision
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- business planning
- personal relationships
- political decision making
Key Concepts
shortsightedness
foresight
holistic thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance immediate advantage with future impact?
- When does discretion become indecision?
A Different Perspective
Cunning can succeed in narrow tasks but may fail in complex, long‑range goals.