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To have and not to give is often worse than to steal.

“To have and not to give is often worse than to steal.” quote by Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach
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“To have and not to give is often worse than to steal.”

Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach

About This Quote

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

Keeping something without sharing can feel more immoral than taking it from another.

In simple terms: Holding without giving is worse than stealing.

Key Takeaway

Share what you have.

Themes

generosity ethics ownership

Mood

guilty reflective

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family inheritance
  • workplace resources
  • community aid

Key Concepts

Moral philosophy social contract

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you kept something selfishly?
  • Can withholding be a form of control?
A Different Perspective

It may be justified in survival contexts.

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