What pleases us in those who are rising is less pleasing…
““What pleases us in those who are rising is less pleasing in those who are falling. We do not admire the combat when there is no danger; and in any case, the combatants of the first hour alone have the right to be the exterminators in the last. He who has not been a determined accuser during prosperity should hold his peace in adversity. He alone who denounces the success has a right to proclaim the justice of the downfall.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Admiration should be reserved for those who confront danger; those who only praise success lack credibility in adversity.
In simple terms: Praise only those who face danger, not just success.
Key Takeaway
Respect courage, not just triumph.
Themes
courage
integrity
justice
honor
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- legal judgments
- personal relationships
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
ethical criticism
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you admire only the victorious?
- How can we fairly assess both success and failure?
A Different Perspective
Critics may be biased by personal interests, reducing objectivity.