It may be objected, that I am now recommending…
“It may be objected, that I am now recommending dissimulation to you; I both own and justify it. It has been long said: Qui nescitdissimular nescit regnare: I go still farther, and say, that without some dissimulation, no business can be carried on at all.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
In business, some degree of deception is necessary; without it, transactions would fail.
In simple terms: A little deceit is sometimes essential in commerce.
Key Takeaway
Balance honesty with strategic discretion.
Themes
ethics
business
deception
strategy
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- sales negotiations
- corporate strategy
- political diplomacy
Key Concepts
moral relativism
pragmatism
trust
Questions to Reflect On
- When is deception justified?
- How can trust be maintained despite necessary deceit?
A Different Perspective
Excessive deceit erodes long‑term credibility.