The virtues are economists, but some of the vices are…
““The virtues are economists, but some of the vices are also...Pride is handsome, economical; pride eradicates so many vices, letting none subsist but itself, that it seems as if it were a great gain to exchange vanity for pride. Pride can go without domestics, without fine clothes, can live in a house with two rooms, can eat potato, purslain, beans, lyed corn, can work on the soil, can travel afoot, can talk with poor men, or sit silent well contented in fine saloons. But vanity costs money, labor, horses, men, women, health and peace, and is still nothing at last; a long way leading nowhere. Only one drawback; proud people are intolerably selfish, and the vain are gentle and giving.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Pride can be modest and self-sufficient, while vanity seeks external validation and material excess.
In simple terms: Pride is modest; vanity seeks status.
Key Takeaway
Embrace modest pride, avoid vanity.
Themes
self-esteem
materialism
humility
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- financial planning
- social media use
- career advancement
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What distinguishes healthy pride from harmful vanity?
- How does society reward vanity?
A Different Perspective
Pride can become arrogance if unchecked.