There is no man but for his own interest hath an…
“There is no man but for his own interest hath an obligation to be honest. There may be sometimes temptations to be otherwise; but, all cards cast up, he shall find it the greatest ease, the highest profit, the best pleasure, the most safety, and the noblest fame, to hold the horns of this altar, which, in all assays, can in himself protect him.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Honesty aligns with self‑interest, yielding profit, safety, and reputation.
In simple terms: Honesty benefits self‑interest.
Key Takeaway
Be honest for personal gain.
Themes
ethics
self‑interest
honesty
reward
Mood
thoughtful
didactic
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- business conduct
- personal decision‑making
- legal compliance
Key Concepts
philosophy
economics
virtue ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- Can honesty always be profitable?
- What risks accompany dishonest shortcuts?
A Different Perspective
Short‑term gains may tempt dishonesty.