Bureaucracy Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
“Self-interest speaks all manner of tongues and plays all manner of parts, even that of disinterestedness.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Maximes by La Rochefoucauld, 1665
Self-interest can masquerade as altruism, adopting any role to serve personal gain.
In simple terms: Self-interest pretends to be selfless.
Key Takeaway
Beware hidden motives.
Themes
human nature
morality
hypocrisy
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- advertising
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
selfishness
social masks
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you seen self-interest disguised as generosity?
- Can true altruism exist?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex motivations.
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