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Benevolence Quote by Charles Dickens

“But you were always a good man of business, Jacob,' faltered Scrooge, who now began to apply this to himself. Business!' cried the Ghost, wringing its hands again. "Mankind was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence, were, all, my business. The deals of my trade were but a drop…” quote by Charles Dickens
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“But you were always a good man of business, Jacob,' faltered Scrooge, who now began to apply this to himself. Business!' cried the Ghost, wringing its hands again. "Mankind was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence, were, all, my business. The deals of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business!”

Charles Dickens

About This Quote

Source Novel: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, 1843

The speaker emphasizes that true purpose lies beyond profit, urging compassion and moral duty over mere commerce.

In simple terms: Business should serve humanity, not dominate it.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize compassion over profit.

Themes

ethics compassion purpose

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

literary moral

When to use this quote

  • business decisions
  • community service
  • personal values
  • leadership

Key Concepts

humanity social responsibility charity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can profit and compassion coexist?
  • What does “business” mean to you?
A Different Perspective

Profit motives can coexist with altruism.

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