Assuming Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“Emulation has been termed a spur to virtue, and assumes to be a spur of gold. But it is a spur composed of baser materials, and if tried in the furnace will be found to want that fixedness which is the characteristic of gold. He that pursues virtue, only to surpass others, is not far from wishing others less forward than himself; and he that rejoices too much at his own perfections will be too little grieved at the defects of other men.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Essays on the Art of Being, 1820
Pursuing virtue for competition leads to envy and insensitivity to others’ flaws.
In simple terms: Competing in virtue breeds jealousy and neglect of others’ faults.
Key Takeaway
Seek virtue for its own sake.
Themes
virtue
competition
humility
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal development
- leadership training
- community building
Key Concepts
ethics
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one practice virtue without comparison?
- What habits foster genuine humility?
A Different Perspective
Virtue can be corrupted by ego and rivalry.
