Approach Quote by George Eliot
“To act with doubleness towards a man whose own conduct was double, was so near an approach to virtue that it deserved to be called by no meaner name than diplomacy.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Middlemarch by George Eliot, 1871
Acting duplicitously toward a dishonest person is a near‑virtuous act, deserving the name diplomacy.
In simple terms: Diplomacy can involve strategic deceit toward the immoral.
Key Takeaway
Use tact wisely.
Themes
ethics
politics
virtue
diplomacy
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- political debates
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
strategic interaction
social conduct
Questions to Reflect On
- When is deception justified?
- What are the costs of diplomatic deceit?
A Different Perspective
Deception may erode trust.
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