Character Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“Sloth, if it has prevented many crimes, has also smothered many virtues.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Complete Works of Charles Caleb Colton", 1820
Preventing crime can also suppress moral virtues, showing a trade‑off between safety and ethical development.
In simple terms: Stopping crime may kill virtue.
Key Takeaway
Balance safety with moral growth.
Themes
ethics
crime
virtue
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- Legal policy
- education reform
- community programs
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
social trade‑offs
Questions to Reflect On
- What virtues are sacrificed for safety?
- How can societies protect both?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on security can stifle creativity.
![“When he [the slothful person] is pressed to be diligent, either in his worldly affairs or in the business of religion, this is his excuse (and a sorry excuse it is as bad as none).” quote by Matthew Henry](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/127/matthew-henry-903_affair_when-he-the-slothful-person-is-pressed-t_1814330.jpg)
