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Accepted Quote by Ford Madox Ford

“Mind, I am not preaching anything contrary to accepted morality. I am not advocating free love in this or any other case. Society must go on, I suppose, and society can only exist if the normal, if the virtuous, and the slightly deceitful flourish, and if the passionate, the headstrong, and the…” quote by Ford Madox Ford
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“Mind, I am not preaching anything contrary to accepted morality. I am not advocating free love in this or any other case. Society must go on, I suppose, and society can only exist if the normal, if the virtuous, and the slightly deceitful flourish, and if the passionate, the headstrong, and the too-truthful are condemned to suicide and madness.”

Ford Madox Ford

About This Quote

Society tolerates a mix of virtues and vices; extreme traits are often condemned, suggesting a balance of moral complexity.

In simple terms: Society needs both good and flawed traits to function.

Key Takeaway

Accept moral complexity in society.

Themes

morality society balance

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical sociological

When to use this quote

  • political theory
  • ethics discussions
  • cultural analysis

Key Concepts

virtue vice social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you define a balanced society?
  • Which traits should be celebrated?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize harmful traits.

2.1 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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