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Expensive Quote by Edward Gibbon

“Revenge is profitable, gratitude is expensive.” quote by Edward Gibbon
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“Revenge is profitable, gratitude is expensive.”

Edward Gibbon

About This Quote

Source Historical analysis: The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, 1776

Revenge yields profit, while gratitude incurs high cost.

In simple terms: Revenge is profitable; gratitude is costly.

Key Takeaway

Weigh costs of emotional responses.

Themes

ethics economics emotions

Mood

cautious critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • business negotiations
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

cost‑benefit analysis moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is gratitude truly costly?
  • Can revenge ever be justified?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex motives.

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