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Morality is a venereal disease. Its primary stage is…

“Morality is a venereal disease. Its primary stage is called virtue; its secondary stage, boredom; its tertiary stage, syphilis.” quote by Karl Kraus
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“Morality is a venereal disease. Its primary stage is called virtue; its secondary stage, boredom; its tertiary stage, syphilis.”

Karl Kraus

About This Quote

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

Morality spreads like disease, starting as virtue, becoming boring, then corrupting completely.

In simple terms: Morality can become corrupt after initial virtue.

Key Takeaway

Beware of moral complacency.

Themes

ethics corruption human nature

Mood

cynical critical

Type

satirical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • personal relationships
  • legal systems

Key Concepts

philosophy satire social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does virtue turn into boredom?
  • When does moral decay become harmful?
A Different Perspective

It may oversimplify complex moral development.

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