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A very ridiculous thing it is, that any man should…

“A very ridiculous thing it is, that any man should dispense with vice and wickedness in himself, which is in his power to restrain; and should go about to suppress it in others, which is altogether impossible.” quote by Marcus Aurelius
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““A very ridiculous thing it is, that any man should dispense with vice and wickedness in himself, which is in his power to restrain; and should go about to suppress it in others, which is altogether impossible.””

Marcus Aurelius

About This Quote

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

People often try to control others' flaws while ignoring their own, even though self‑control is within their power.

In simple terms: We focus on fixing others instead of ourselves.

Key Takeaway

Check your own behavior before judging.

Themes

self‑reflection humility control

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

stoicism psychology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal vice could you restrain today?
  • How do you react when others are judged?
A Different Perspective

Self‑control is harder than criticizing others.

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