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Boast Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld

“Men are often so foolish as to boast and value themselves upon their passions, even those that are most vicious. But envy is a passion so full of cowardice and shame that no one every ever had the confidence to own it.” quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
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“Men are often so foolish as to boast and value themselves upon their passions, even those that are most vicious. But envy is a passion so full of cowardice and shame that no one every ever had the confidence to own it.”

Francois de La Rochefoucauld

About This Quote

Source Maximes, 1665

People often brag about passions, even harmful ones, yet envy is a shameful, cowardly feeling they rarely admit.

In simple terms: Boasting about passions hides shame; envy is hidden.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge envy to diminish its power.

Themes

pride envy humility

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace competition
  • political ambition

Key Concepts

moral philosophy human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your envy?
  • How can you transform envy into motivation?
A Different Perspective

Admitting envy can expose vulnerability.

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