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We should try to succeed by merit, not by favor. He who…

“We should try to succeed by merit, not by favor. He who does well will always have patrons enough. [Lat., Virtute ambire oportet, non favitoribus. Sat habet favitorum semper, qui recte facit.]” quote by Plautus
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“We should try to succeed by merit, not by favor. He who does well will always have patrons enough. [Lat., Virtute ambire oportet, non favitoribus. Sat habet favitorum semper, qui recte facit.]”

Plautus

About This Quote

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

Merit should be the basis of success, not favoritism; those who act rightly attract sufficient support.

In simple terms: Success by merit, not favoritism.

Key Takeaway

Earn respect through competence.

Themes

merit fairness support ethics

Mood

reflective critical

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • job applications
  • academic pursuits
  • team leadership
  • political campaigns

Key Concepts

Patronage social capital justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can institutions reward merit over connections?
  • What safeguards ensure fair recognition?
A Different Perspective

Favoritism can still dominate in opaque systems.

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