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Blame Quote by Friedrich Schiller

“It is criminal to steal a purse, daring to steal a fortune, a mark of greatness to steal a crown. The blame diminishes as the guilt increases.” quote by Friedrich Schiller
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“It is criminal to steal a purse, daring to steal a fortune, a mark of greatness to steal a crown. The blame diminishes as the guilt increases.”

Friedrich Schiller

About This Quote

Source Play: The Robbers, 1782

Stealing is criminal, yet larger crimes are seen as bold; guilt lessens accountability.

In simple terms: Crime is seen differently by scale.

Key Takeaway

Question moral judgments of actions.

Themes

morality crime power

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • legal debates
  • political revolts
  • corporate fraud
  • personal betrayal

Key Concepts

ethics justice social hierarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does ambition become immoral?
  • How does society view large-scale crimes?
A Different Perspective

Justifications can rationalize wrongdoing.

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