Skip to content

Caught Quote by H. L. Mencken

“The difference between a moral man and a man of honor is that the latter regrets a discreditable act, even when it has worked and he has not been caught.” quote by H. L. Mencken
Download Open image
“The difference between a moral man and a man of honor is that the latter regrets a discreditable act, even when it has worked and he has not been caught.”

H. L. Mencken

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Moral Man and the Man of Honor, 1920s

A moral person acts rightly, while an honorable person feels remorse for wrongs even if unnoticed.

In simple terms: Honor includes conscience, not just reputation.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate inner accountability.

Themes

ethics honor conscience

Mood

serious introspective

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • Leadership decisions
  • personal reflection
  • public service

Key Concepts

Moral philosophy integrity

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you prioritize honesty over reputation?
  • Can regret be productive?
A Different Perspective

Remorse may cause paralysis.

4.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by H. L. Mencken

Explore all 827 H. L. Mencken quotes

More Caught quotes

Browse all 2,627 Caught quotes