Acquire Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“TAKE, v.t. To acquire, frequently by force but preferably by stealth.”
About This Quote
Source Dictionary: The Devil's Dictionary, 1906
Acquiring something by force or stealth emphasizes power over consent.
In simple terms: Taking often means using force or secrecy.
Key Takeaway
Consider ethical means of acquisition.
Themes
power
ethics
acquisition
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- political strategy
- personal relationships
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the goal worth the means?
- How does stealth affect moral judgment?
A Different Perspective
Forceful taking can damage trust and reputation.
![“For the production of man a different apprenticeship [from forests] was needed to sharpen the wits and quicken the higher manifestations of intellect - a more open veldt country where competition was keener between swiftness and stealth, and where adroitness of thinking played a preponderating…” quote by Raymond Dart](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/631/raymond-dart-91691_apprenticeship_for-the-production-of-man-a-different-ap_255457.jpg)
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
