A conservative, I take it, is a man who despises…
“A conservative, I take it, is a man who despises vulgarity; but the argument which is concerned exclusively with calculations of success, and is based on blindness to the nobility of the effort, is vulgar.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote contrasts a conservative disdain for vulgarity with the vulgarity of purely success‑driven calculations that ignore the noble effort behind achievements.
In simple terms: It warns against valuing only results while ignoring the dignity of hard work.
Key Takeaway
Respect effort, not just outcomes.
Themes
conservatism
values
effort
success
vulgarity
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- business leadership
- personal development
- political discourse
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance outcome goals with honoring effort?
- What defines 'vulgar' in your work?
A Different Perspective
Focus on results can overlook the intrinsic worth of the process.