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The difficulty is to know conscience from self-interest.

“The difficulty is to know conscience from self-interest.” quote by William Dean Howells
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“The difficulty is to know conscience from self-interest.”

William Dean Howells

About This Quote

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

Distinguishing true moral conscience from self‑serving motives is difficult.

In simple terms: Knowing what’s right versus what benefits you is hard.

Key Takeaway

Question motives behind actions.

Themes

ethics self‑interest morality

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • business decisions
  • political leadership
  • personal choices
  • social activism

Key Concepts

psychology philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your decisions more, principle or gain?
  • How can you test the purity of your motives?
A Different Perspective

Self‑interest can masquerade as conscience.

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