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Lying is a most disgraceful vice; it first despises God…

“Lying is a most disgraceful vice; it first despises God, and then fears men.” quote by Plutarch
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“Lying is a most disgraceful vice; it first despises God, and then fears men.”

Plutarch

About This Quote

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

Lying elevates contempt for the divine and erodes respect for fellow humans, showing moral decay.

In simple terms: Lying disrespects God and scares people.

Key Takeaway

Avoid lying to preserve dignity.

Themes

ethics honesty spirituality

Mood

reflective serious

Type

moral philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • personal relationships
  • legal testimony

Key Concepts

moral decay respect integrity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What values are compromised when one lies?
  • How does truthfulness affect community trust?
A Different Perspective

Lying may sometimes be rationalized as self‑preservation.

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