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Advantage Quote by B. C. Forbes

“He is a wise man who seeks by every legitimate means to make all the money he can honestly, for money can do so many worthwhile things in this world, not merely for one's self but for others. But he is an unmitigated fool who imagines for a moment that it is more important to make the money than…” quote by B. C. Forbes
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“He is a wise man who seeks by every legitimate means to make all the money he can honestly, for money can do so many worthwhile things in this world, not merely for one's self but for others. But he is an unmitigated fool who imagines for a moment that it is more important to make the money than to make it honestly. One of the advantages of possessing money is that it facilitates one's independence and mental attitude. The man head over heels in debt is more slave than independent.”

B. C. Forbes

About This Quote

Source Book: The Richest Man in Babylon, 1926

Money earned honestly empowers personal freedom and the ability to help others, while pursuing wealth by dishonest means leads to moral and psychological servitude.

In simple terms: Honest earnings bring freedom and aid; dishonest gain enslaves.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize integrity over profit.

Themes

wealth ethics freedom responsibility

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • entrepreneurship
  • personal finance
  • philanthropy
  • career planning

Key Concepts

honesty financial independence social impact

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does honest wealth affect your sense of autonomy?
  • What are the long‑term costs of dishonest profit?
A Different Perspective

Ill-gotten gains often result in legal trouble and loss of trust.

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