Evil Quote by Giovanni Ruffini
“Selfishness, if but reasonably tempered with wisdom, is not such an evil trait.”
About This Quote
Source Essay or philosophical treatise, early 20th century
Selfishness, when balanced with wisdom, is not wholly negative; it can be a protective instinct.
In simple terms: Moderate selfishness isn’t always bad.
Key Takeaway
Balance self-interest with insight.
Themes
ethics
selfishness
wisdom
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- leadership
- resource allocation
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- When does self-interest become harmful?
- How can wisdom temper selfish urges?
A Different Perspective
Excessive self-interest remains harmful.
![“Satan had two conditions [to his plan]: the first was the denial of agency, and the second, that he would have the honor. In other words, something had to be in it for him. And thus he became the father of lies and selfishness. Taking up one's cross and following the Savior means overcoming…” quote by James E. Faust](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/287/james-e-faust-1274_agency_satan-had-two-conditions-to-his-plan-the_97153.jpg)
![“I never left my roots. You can identify me as someone that didn't become high and mighty. Humility is a defining [trait] all of us can forever learn, and I try to be as humble as anyone can be.” quote by Serena Williams](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/517/serena-williams-1589_defining_i-never-left-my-roots-you-can-identify-m_17115.jpg)
![“Evil cannot be "treated" -- nor should it be. Evil has to [be] confronted and destroyed and it matters not why the evil is in play. Society has no obligation to try to rehabilitate evil.” quote by Bill O'Reilly](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b89/bill-o-reilly-1019_destroyed_evil-cannot-be-treated-nor-should-it-be_3597.jpg)
