If there is one tendency of the day which more than any…
“If there is one tendency of the day which more than any other is unhealthy and undesirable, it is the tendency to deify mere "smartness," unaccompanied by a sense of moral accountability. We shall never make our republic what it should be until as a people we thoroughly understand and put in practice the doctrine that success is abhorrent if attained by the sacrifice of the fundamental principles of morality.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Elevating intelligence without moral duty is dangerous; success must not sacrifice ethics.
In simple terms: Smartness alone isn’t enough; morality matters.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize ethical standards over mere cleverness.
Themes
ethics
intelligence
leadership
society
Mood
concerned
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education policy
- corporate governance
- political rhetoric
- media commentary
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
integrity
social responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What does moral accountability look like in daily decisions?
- How can societies balance brilliance with virtue?
A Different Perspective
Intelligence without ethics can still cause harm.