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Deprived Quote by Francis Quarles

“It is a most just punishment, that man should lose that freedom, which man could not use, yet had power to keep, if he would; and that he who had knowledge to do what was right, and did not should be deprived of the knowledge of what was right; and that he who would not do righteously, when he had…” quote by Francis Quarles
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“It is a most just punishment, that man should lose that freedom, which man could not use, yet had power to keep, if he would; and that he who had knowledge to do what was right, and did not should be deprived of the knowledge of what was right; and that he who would not do righteously, when he had the power, should lose the power to do it, when he had the will.”

Francis Quarles

About This Quote

Source Poem: Moral Reflections, 1625

Justice demands that those who misuse knowledge or power lose it, while those who could act righteously but do not are deprived of the right knowledge.

In simple terms: Misusing power leads to loss of power and knowledge.

Key Takeaway

Guard your actions and knowledge wisely.

Themes

justice power knowledge morality

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • policy making
  • personal decisions

Key Concepts

ethics responsibility consequences

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it just to strip someone of knowledge?
  • Can power be reclaimed after loss?
A Different Perspective

The principle may be too rigid for complex moral situations.

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