Be assured that, although men of eminent genius have been…
“Be assured that, although men of eminent genius have been guilty of all other vices, none worthy of more than a secondary name has ever been a gamester. Either an excess of avarice or a deficiency of what, in physics, is called excitability, is the cause of it; neither of which can exist in the same bosom with genius, with patriotism, or with virtue.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Genius cannot coexist with greed or lack of excitement; such vices are separate from true virtue.
In simple terms: Genius and vice are mutually exclusive.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate virtue without succumbing to greed.
Themes
virtue
genius
vice
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- ethical decision‑making
- personal integrity
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
human nature
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- Can one be virtuous yet imperfect?
- What role does ambition play in virtue?
A Different Perspective
Even virtuous people may have minor flaws; perfection is unrealistic.