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If once a man indulges himself in murder, very soon he…

“If once a man indulges himself in murder, very soon he comes to think little of robbing; and from robbing he comes next to drinking and Sabbath-breaking, and from that to incivility and procrastination.” quote by Thomas de Quincey
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“If once a man indulges himself in murder, very soon he comes to think little of robbing; and from robbing he comes next to drinking and Sabbath-breaking, and from that to incivility and procrastination.”

Thomas de Quincey

About This Quote

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

A pattern of moral decay shows how one wrongdoing leads to another, escalating into broader social vices.

In simple terms: Bad habits breed worse habits.

Key Takeaway

Recognize early signs of moral decline.

Themes

morality degradation consequences

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • legal reform
  • education programs
  • community outreach

Key Concepts

addiction ethical erosion social decay

Questions to Reflect On

  • What small habit might lead to larger ethical breaches?
  • Can societal support prevent this progression?
A Different Perspective

Not all individuals follow this slippery slope; context matters.

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