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Kings are more prone to mistrust the good than the bad…

“Kings are more prone to mistrust the good than the bad; and they are always afraid of the virtues of others.” quote by Sallust
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“Kings are more prone to mistrust the good than the bad; and they are always afraid of the virtues of others.”

Sallust

About This Quote

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

Rulers often distrust virtuous people and fear others' moral strength

In simple terms: Kings fear good people more than bad ones

Key Takeaway

Beware of mistrust that blinds leaders to virtue

Themes

political power trust virtue

Mood

cautionary analytical

Type

historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • court politics
  • leadership training
  • ethical governance

Key Concepts

leadership psychology historical analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does mistrust affect governance?
  • Can leaders balance suspicion with fairness?
A Different Perspective

Fear of virtue can erode wise decision‑making

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