Common Temper Quote by Daniel Defoe
““I have since often observed, how incongruous and irrational the common temper of mankind is, especially of youth, to that reason which ought to guide them in such cases—viz. that they are not ashamed to sin, and yet are ashamed to repent; not ashamed of the action for which they ought justly to be esteemed fools, but are ashamed of the returning, which only can make them be esteemed wise men.””
About This Quote
People often feel shame for sin but also for repentance, revealing contradictory moral standards.
In simple terms: Shame surrounds both sin and repentance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and resolve moral contradictions.
Themes
morality
shame
hypocrisy
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- teaching ethics
- self‑reflection
- counseling
- religious discourse
Key Concepts
ethics
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we shame sin but not repentance?
- How can we foster healthier moral views?
A Different Perspective
Cultural differences affect notions of shame.
![“Be ashamed when you sin, don't be ashamed when you repent [To repent means to have a change of heart and mind. It is not simply a feeling of sorrow ,but a psycho/spiritual growth away from evil/death and a turning to God/life]. Sin is the wound, repentance is the medicine. Sin is followed by…” quote by Saint John Chrysostom](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0c7/saint-john-chrysostom-2375_ashamed_be-ashamed-when-you-sin-don-t-be-ashamed_2047397.jpg)
