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A person may be greedy, envious, cowardly, cold…

“A person may be greedy, envious, cowardly, cold, ungenerous, unkind, vain, or conceited, but behave perfectly by a monumental act of the will.” quote by Thomas Nagel
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“A person may be greedy, envious, cowardly, cold, ungenerous, unkind, vain, or conceited, but behave perfectly by a monumental act of the will.”

Thomas Nagel

About This Quote

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

Even flawed people can act morally through deliberate willpower, transcending negative traits.

In simple terms: Willpower enables moral behavior.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate strong will.

Themes

ethics willpower human nature

Mood

thoughtful challenging

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • decision making
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

moral philosophy self‑control

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions demonstrate moral will?
  • How does willpower interact with character?
A Different Perspective

Willpower alone may not overcome deep‑seated biases.

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