Cost Quote by George Eliot
“When one wanted one's interests looking after whatever the cost, it was not so well for a lawyer to be over honest, else he might not be up to other people's tricks.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Middlemarch by George Eliot, 1871
Prioritizing personal gain over honesty can undermine professional integrity, especially for lawyers who must balance self-interest with ethical duties.
In simple terms: Selfishness harms honesty in law.
Key Takeaway
Balance self-interest with integrity.
Themes
ethics
law
self-interest
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legal practice
- client negotiations
- career decisions
Key Concepts
professionalism
integrity
conflict of interest
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile personal ambition with professional ethics?
- What boundaries protect integrity?
A Different Perspective
Honesty may limit short‑term gains but preserves long‑term reputation.
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