Skip to content

Action Quote by Eleanor Roosevelt

“I learned then that practically no one in the world is entirely bad or entirely good, and that motives are often more important than actions.” quote by Eleanor Roosevelt
Download Open image
“I learned then that practically no one in the world is entirely bad or entirely good, and that motives are often more important than actions.”

Eleanor Roosevelt

About This Quote

Source Speech: United Nations General Assembly, 1948

People are complex; judging them solely as good or bad oversimplifies; motives behind actions matter more than the actions themselves.

In simple terms: People aren't all good or bad; motives matter.

Key Takeaway

Consider motives before judging.

Themes

morality complexity motivation judgment

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • conflict mediation
  • leadership decisions
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

ethics human nature psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you uncover true motives?
  • When should actions outweigh motives?
A Different Perspective

Motives can be hidden, making assessment difficult.

4.1 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Eleanor Roosevelt

Explore all 612 Eleanor Roosevelt quotes

More Action quotes

Browse all 14,940 Action quotes