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Perfection is immutable. But for things imperfect change…

“Perfection is immutable. But for things imperfect change is the way to perfect them. It gets the name of wilfulness when it will not admit of a lawful change to the better. Therefore constancy without knowledge cannot be always good. In things ill it is not virtue, but an absolute vice.” quote by Owen Feltham
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“Perfection is immutable. But for things imperfect change is the way to perfect them. It gets the name of wilfulness when it will not admit of a lawful change to the better. Therefore constancy without knowledge cannot be always good. In things ill it is not virtue, but an absolute vice.”

Owen Feltham

About This Quote

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

Unchanging constancy without knowledge leads to vice; improvement requires adaptable change.

In simple terms: Change improves when guided by knowledge.

Key Takeaway

Adapt and learn continuously.

Themes

change knowledge virtue

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • self‑improvement
  • organizational development
  • education

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics personal growth

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does constancy become harmful?
  • How can knowledge guide change?
A Different Perspective

Rigid adherence can stifle innovation.

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