The greatest human virtue bears no proportion to human…
“The greatest human virtue bears no proportion to human vanity. We always think ourselves better than we are, and are generally desirous that others should think us still better than we think ourselves. To praise us for actions or dispositions which deserve praise is not to confer a benefit, but to pay a tribute. We have always pretensions to fame which, in our own hearts, we know to be disputable, and which we are desirous to strengthen by a new suffrage; we have always hopes which we suspect to be fallacious, and of which we eagerly snatch at every confirmation.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human virtue is often overstated by personal vanity; true praise should be sincere, not a means to boost ego or false hopes.
In simple terms: Virtue and vanity clash; praise should be genuine.
Key Takeaway
Seek honest feedback, avoid ego‑driven validation.
Themes
virtue
vanity
honesty
self‑awareness
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- career advancement
- public speaking
- leadership
Key Concepts
pride
self‑deception
social validation
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you value praise for its truth or its boost?
- How does vanity affect your self‑assessment?
A Different Perspective
Pride can distort perception of virtue.