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Contrary Quote by Francesco Guicciardini

“He who imitates what is evil always goes beyond the example that is set; on the contrary, he who imitates what is good always falls short.” quote by Francesco Guicciardini
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“He who imitates what is evil always goes beyond the example that is set; on the contrary, he who imitates what is good always falls short.”

Francesco Guicciardini

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Discourses on Moral Philosophy, 16th century

Mimicking evil exceeds the original wrongdoing, while imitating good never fully matches it.

In simple terms: Copying bad deeds worsens them; copying good deeds falls short.

Key Takeaway

Aim for original virtue, not imitation.

Themes

ethics behavior imitation

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • education
  • personal development

Key Concepts

moral philosophy human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can we ever truly emulate virtue?
  • How does imitation affect moral growth?
A Different Perspective

Good role models may be hard to emulate perfectly.

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