Action Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“The true motives of our actions, like the real pipes of an organ, are usually concealed; but the gilded and hollow pretext is pompously placed in the front for show.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Essays on Moral Philosophy, Charles Caleb Colton, 1820
True motives are hidden like organ pipes, while flashy false pretenses are displayed openly.
In simple terms: Real motives hide; pretenses are shown.
Key Takeaway
Beware superficial explanations.
Themes
motivation
authenticity
deception
appearance
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- leadership training
- political analysis
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
psychology of self
Questions to Reflect On
- What pretenses do we accept?
- How can we uncover hidden motives?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex motives.
