Duties are not performed for duty's sake, but because…
“Duties are not performed for duty's sake, but because their neglect would make the man uncomfortable. A man performs but one duty - the duty of contenting his spirit, the duty of making himself agreeable to himself.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
We act out of self‑interest, avoiding discomfort, rather than pure duty; true duty is aligning with one’s inner self.
In simple terms: We act to avoid discomfort, not duty.
Key Takeaway
Align actions with inner values.
Themes
self‑interest
duty
comfort
Mood
introspective
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- career choices
- habit formation
- self‑improvement
Key Concepts
psychology
ethical motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- What inner values guide your duties?
- How to distinguish self‑interest from genuine duty?
A Different Perspective
Self‑interest can mask moral duty.