All, or the greatest part of men that have aspired to…
“All, or the greatest part of men that have aspired to riches or power, have attained thereunto either by force or fraud, and what they have by craft or cruelty gained, to cover the foulness of their fact, they call purchase, as a name more honest. Howsoever, he that for want of will or wit useth not those means, must rest in servitude and poverty.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People who seek wealth or power often use force or deceit, calling it honest purchase, while those lacking cunning remain poor.
In simple terms: Power seekers use force or fraud, disguising it as honest trade.
Key Takeaway
Beware deception in the pursuit of success.
Themes
ethics
power
deception
Mood
cautionary
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- political ambition
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
political critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines honest gain?
- How can societies curb fraudulent ambition?
A Different Perspective
Not all power is obtained through force; some is legitimate.