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Beggar Quote by Hesiod

“In the race for wealth, a neighbor tries to outdo his neighbor, but this strife is good for men. For the potter envies potter, and the carpenter the carpenter, and the beggar rivals the beggar, and the singer the singer.” quote by Hesiod
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“In the race for wealth, a neighbor tries to outdo his neighbor, but this strife is good for men. For the potter envies potter, and the carpenter the carpenter, and the beggar rivals the beggar, and the singer the singer.”

Hesiod

About This Quote

Source Poem: Works and Days, c. 750 BC

Competitive striving among peers drives progress, as each craftsman or laborer seeks to outdo others in their trade.

In simple terms: Rivalry pushes people to improve their work.

Key Takeaway

Use healthy competition to motivate growth.

Themes

competition craftsmanship motivation

Mood

inspirational cautionary

Type

mythic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • workplace
  • artisan guilds
  • entrepreneurship
  • sports
  • academic settings

Key Concepts

economic sociology human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can rivalry be kept constructive?
  • When does competition become harmful?
A Different Perspective

Excessive rivalry can breed envy and conflict.

2.3 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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