Honorable man Quote by Hermann Hesse
““That is why each of us has to find out for himself what is permitted and what is forbidden--forbidden for him. It's possible for one never to transgress a single law and still be a bastard. And vice versa. Actually it's only a question of convenience. Those who are too lazy and comfortable to think for themselves and be their own judges obey the laws. Others sense their own laws within them; things are forbidden to them that every honorable man will do any day in the year and other things are allowed to them that are generally despised. Each person must stand on his own feet.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Demian by Hermann Hesse, 1919
Each individual must discover personal moral boundaries, recognizing that external laws may not align with inner honor.
In simple terms: Find your own moral compass.
Key Takeaway
Live by self‑determined principles.
Themes
individualism
morality
self‑reliance
conformity
honor
Mood
reflective
determined
introspective
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- making career choices
- standing up to peer pressure
- ethical dilemmas in work
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
existentialism
personal ethics
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate between societal norms and your own moral convictions?
- When have you followed an inner law that contradicted an external rule?
A Different Perspective
External rules can conflict with inner values, creating tension between societal expectations and personal integrity.
