As for myself, I can only exhort you to look on Friendship…
““As for myself, I can only exhort you to look on Friendship as the most valuable of all human possessions, no other being equally suited to the moral nature of man, or so applicable to every state and circumstance, whether of prosperity or adversity, in which he can possibly be placed. But at the same time I lay it down as a fundamental axiom that "true Friendship can only subsist between those who are animated by the strictest principles of honour and virtue." When I say this, I would not be thought to adopt the sentiments of those speculative moralists who pretend that no man can justly be deemed virtuous who is not arrived at that state of absolute perfection which constitutes, according to their ideas, the character of genuine wisdom. This opinion may appear true, perhaps, in theory, but is altogether inapplicable to any useful purpose of society, as it supposes a degree of virtue to which no mortal was ever capable of rising.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Friendship is the greatest human treasure, but true friendship requires the highest moral standards, which are unattainable for most.
In simple terms: Friendship is valuable, yet perfect virtue is rare.
Key Takeaway
Seek friendships grounded in shared honor and realistic virtue.
Themes
friendship
morality
human nature
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- leadership
- community building
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
virtue ethics
social bonds
Questions to Reflect On
- What virtues are essential for lasting friendship?
- How can we balance ideal standards with human imperfection?
A Different Perspective
Idealizing perfection may exclude many worthy connections.