Nature has ordained that the man who is pleading his own…
“Nature has ordained that the man who is pleading his own cause before a large audience, will be more readily listened to than he who has no object in view other than the public benefit.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People who argue for personal interests in public are more persuasive than those who speak only for the common good.
In simple terms: Self‑interest sounds more convincing than pure altruism.
Key Takeaway
Balance personal and public motives.
Themes
politics
persuasion
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
historical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- political campaigns
- activism
- leadership
- debate
Key Concepts
rhetoric
history
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you value self‑interest over collective good?
- How can altruism be made persuasive?
A Different Perspective
Pure altruism can inspire trust despite less immediate impact.