Character Quote by Baron de Montesquieu
“Virtue has needs of limits.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: The Spirit of the Laws, 1748
Virtue must be bounded; excess can corrupt moral good.
In simple terms: Virtue needs limits.
Key Takeaway
Balance moral ambition.
Themes
virtue
limits
morality
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- leadership
- policy design
- personal conduct
Key Concepts
political theory
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you know when virtue becomes excess?
- What safeguards prevent moral overreach?
A Different Perspective
Over‑regulation may stifle virtue.
