Deception Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
“The most ingenious men continually pretend to condemn tricking--but this is often done that they may use it more conveniently themselves, when some great occasion or interest offers itself to them.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Maximes by La Rochefoucauld, 1665
People often publicly denounce deceit while secretly exploiting it when it benefits them.
In simple terms: Public condemnation hides private use of trickery.
Key Takeaway
Watch for hypocrisy in moral judgments.
Themes
hypocrisy
power
ethics
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
aphilosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- business deals
- legal strategy
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Moral psychology
self-interest
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you seen someone condemn what they later practice?
- What motivates this double standard?
A Different Perspective
Such behavior can erode trust and credibility.
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