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Deception Quote by François de La Rochefoucauld

“87.—Men would not live long in society were they not the dupes of each other. [A maxim, adds Aimé Martin, "Which may enter into the code of a vulgar rogue, but one is astonished to find it in a moral treatise." Yet we have scriptural authority for it: "Deceiving and being deceived."—2 TIM. iii. 13.]” quote by François de La Rochefoucauld
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““87.—Men would not live long in society were they not the dupes of each other. [A maxim, adds Aimé Martin, "Which may enter into the code of a vulgar rogue, but one is astonished to find it in a moral treatise." Yet we have scriptural authority for it: "Deceiving and being deceived."—2 TIM. iii. 13.]””

François de La Rochefoucauld

About This Quote

Society thrives on mutual deception; even moral texts acknowledge it.

In simple terms: People deceive each other often.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and guard against deception.

Themes

deception society morality

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • politics
  • business negotiations
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does deception shape social bonds?
  • Can honesty survive in competitive settings?
A Different Perspective

Not all interactions are deceptive; trust can exist.

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