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Whenever a man has cast a longing eye on offices, a…

“Whenever a man has cast a longing eye on offices, a rottenness begins in his conduct.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“Whenever a man has cast a longing eye on offices, a rottenness begins in his conduct.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

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

Warns that desire for power leads to corrupt behavior.

In simple terms: Power cravings corrupt conduct.

Key Takeaway

Guard against ambition.

Themes

politics corruption ethics

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • government service
  • corporate leadership
  • community activism
  • personal ambition

Key Concepts

moral decay power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does ambition become corrupt?
  • What safeguards prevent moral decay?
A Different Perspective

Not all ambition is harmful.

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