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Careful Quote by Hosea Ballou

“Be more careful of your conscience than of your estate. The latter can be bought and sold; the former never.” quote by Hosea Ballou
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“Be more careful of your conscience than of your estate. The latter can be bought and sold; the former never.”

Hosea Ballou

About This Quote

Source Sermon: 19th‑century religious sermon, 1845

Conscience is immutable and priceless, unlike material wealth which can be traded; prioritize moral integrity.

In simple terms: Conscience is priceless; wealth is not.

Key Takeaway

Guard your conscience above material gain.

Themes

ethics integrity spirituality

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • business decisions
  • personal dilemmas
  • legal contracts

Key Concepts

moral philosophy property rights inner virtue

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you resolve conflicts between profit and principle?
  • What practices keep your conscience clear?
A Different Perspective

Materialism can tempt compromise of conscience.

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