Irresolution is a worse vice than rashness. He that shoots…
“Irresolution is a worse vice than rashness. He that shoots best may sometimes miss the mark; but he that shoots not at all can never hit it. Irresolution loosens all the joints of a state; like an ague, it shakes not this nor that limb, but all the body is at once in a fit. The irresolute man is lifted from one place to another; so hatcheth nothing, but addles all his actions.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Indecision weakens a nation more than reckless action; without effort nothing is achieved, while rashness may still yield results.
In simple terms: Indecision harms more than rashness; effort is needed.
Key Takeaway
Act decisively, even if imperfect.
Themes
indecision
action
national stability
effort
risk
Mood
cautious
reflective
serious
Type
advisory
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- government policy
- personal goals
- team projects
- creative endeavors
Key Concepts
political theory
human behavior
decision making
Questions to Reflect On
- How does hesitation affect collective outcomes?
- When is rashness justified?
A Different Perspective
Indecision can paralyze and cause chaos if not managed.