Skip to content

If not for that of conscience, yet at least for ambition's…

“If not for that of conscience, yet at least for ambition's sake, let us reject ambition, let us disdain that thirst of honor and renown, so low and mendicant; that it makes us beg it of all sorts of people.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
Download Open image
“If not for that of conscience, yet at least for ambition's sake, let us reject ambition, let us disdain that thirst of honor and renown, so low and mendicant; that it makes us beg it of all sorts of people.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

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

He argues for rejecting ambition and honor, viewing them as low and beggarly, favoring conscience over status.

In simple terms: Reject ambition and honor for a humble conscience.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize integrity over fame.

Themes

humility conscience ambition

Mood

reflective serene

Type

philosophical self‑help

When to use this quote

  • personal decisions
  • career choices
  • social interactions

Key Concepts

ethics existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates you beyond ambition?
  • How can you balance humility with achievement?
A Different Perspective

Complete rejection may ignore healthy motivation.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Michel de Montaigne

Explore all 1,131 Michel de Montaigne quotes

More Ambition quotes

Browse all 4,601 Ambition quotes