Benefits Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
“The gratitude of most men is but a secret desire of receiving greater benefits.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Maximes, François de La Rochefoucauld, 1665
People often desire hidden rewards, masking true motives.
In simple terms: People want secret benefits.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden motives in interactions.
Themes
human nature
desire
secrecy
Mood
reflective
curious
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
self‑interest
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- What benefits do you seek openly?
- How do hidden motives affect trust?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all desires are secret, overlooking transparent altruism.
![“[The Dalai Lama] told me some years ago, "I've made every concession to China, and I've been as open and tolerant as I could, and still things get worse in Tibet." If you look at it from one point of view, as he himself says, his monastic position of forbearance and nonviolence hasn't reaped any…” quote by Pico Iyer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9fe/pico-iyer-1252_benefits_the-dalai-lama-told-me-some-years-ago-i_678.jpg)
