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Defense Quote by Ambrose Bierce

“The money-getter who pleads his love of work has a lame defense, for love of work at money-getting is a lower taste than love of money.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“The money-getter who pleads his love of work has a lame defense, for love of work at money-getting is a lower taste than love of money.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Devil's Dictionary, 1906

Prioritizing work for its own sake is a weaker motive than seeking money, revealing a hierarchy of values.

In simple terms: Loving work is less noble than loving money.

Key Takeaway

Recognize true motivations behind actions.

Themes

values motivation ethics materialism

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • career decisions
  • financial planning
  • personal fulfillment
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

hierarchy of desire moral relativism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your work: passion or profit?
  • Is money a means or an end?
A Different Perspective

It may ignore intrinsic satisfaction and long‑term purpose.

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