Education must have two foundations --morality as a…
“Education must have two foundations --morality as a support for virtue, prudence as a defense for self against the vices of others. By letting the balance incline to the side of morality, you only make dupes or martyrs; by letting it incline to the other, you make calculating egoists.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Moral and prudent foundations must balance; overemphasis on either creates dupes, martyrs, or selfish calculators.
In simple terms: Balance morality and prudence to avoid extremes.
Cultivate both virtue and practical wisdom.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education curricula
- personal development
- leadership training
- policy design
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can education teach balanced moral and practical judgment?
- What safeguards prevent moral or pragmatic excess?
Real‑world application of abstract virtues is complex.