Character Quote by Edward Slingerland
““Thinking that you are good can make you bad. Talking about positive behavior can encourage negative behavior. Laozi is clearly on to something when he warns us that consciously trying to be righteous will, in fact, turn us into insufferable hypocrites and that anyone striving to attain virtue is destined to fail.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of Being Human by Edward Slingerland, 2019
Attempting to force virtue often leads to hypocrisy; genuine goodness arises naturally, not from self‑conscious effort.
In simple terms: Trying too hard to be good makes you bad.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate authenticity over forced righteousness.
Themes
authenticity
hypocrisy
virtue
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- leadership training
- education
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
self‑awareness
moral psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you practice virtue without self‑judgment?
- What habits reveal authentic goodness?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on self‑control can stifle spontaneity and compassion.
