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There is a certain degree of temptation which will…

“There is a certain degree of temptation which will overcome any virtue. Now, in so far as you approach temptation to a man, you do him an injury; and, if he is overcome, you share his guilt.” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“There is a certain degree of temptation which will overcome any virtue. Now, in so far as you approach temptation to a man, you do him an injury; and, if he is overcome, you share his guilt.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

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

Temptation can overpower virtue; harming others through temptation also implicates you in guilt.

In simple terms: Temptation harms both the tempted and those around them.

Key Takeaway

Guard against temptation to protect yourself and others.

Themes

ethics temptation virtue guilt responsibility

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • making ethical choices at work
  • teaching children about honesty
  • handling peer pressure

Key Concepts

moral philosophy human weakness social impact

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards can reduce temptation?
  • How do you address shared guilt?
A Different Perspective

Temptation is sometimes unavoidable; not all guilt is shared equally.

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