Difficult Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“Honesty is not only the deepest policy, but the highest wisdom; since, however difficult it may be for integrity to get on, it is a thousand times more difficult for knavery to get off; and no error is more fatal than that of those who think that Virtue has no other reward because they have heard that she is her own.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Essays on Moral Philosophy, 1820
Integrity is the highest wisdom; dishonesty is harder to escape and more damaging.
In simple terms: Integrity is wise; dishonesty is harmful.
Key Takeaway
Choose honesty even when difficult.
Themes
ethics
integrity
wisdom
consequences
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- business decisions
- personal relationships
- legal matters
- leadership
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
virtue ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What costs have you faced for honesty?
- Can integrity be taught?
A Different Perspective
Societal pressure may reward dishonesty.
