Skip to content

Accepted Quote by Clement Greenberg

“Once efficiency is universally accepted as a rule, it becomes an inner compulsion and weighs like a sense of sin, simply because no one can ever be efficient enough, just as no one can ever be virtuous enough.” quote by Clement Greenberg
Download Open image
“Once efficiency is universally accepted as a rule, it becomes an inner compulsion and weighs like a sense of sin, simply because no one can ever be efficient enough, just as no one can ever be virtuous enough.”

Clement Greenberg

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Cult of Efficiency", 1975

When efficiency becomes a rule, it feels like a moral burden, impossible to fully achieve.

In simple terms: Efficiency can feel like a sin if over‑emphasized.

Key Takeaway

Balance efficiency with realistic expectations.

Themes

efficiency morality psychological pressure

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • corporate policy design
  • personal productivity coaching
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

philosophy work ethic self‑criticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is striving for efficiency harming your well‑being?
  • How can you set healthier standards?
A Different Perspective

Perfectionism can lead to burnout.

2.8 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Clement Greenberg

Explore all 39 Clement Greenberg quotes

More Accepted quotes

Browse all 2,128 Accepted quotes