Character Quote by John Adams
“Popularity, next to virtue and wisdom, ought to be aimed at; for it is the dictate of wisdom, and is necessary to the practice of virtue inmost”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Letters of John Adams, 1765-1795, 1795
Popularity is valued alongside virtue and wisdom because it supports the practice of virtue.
In simple terms: Popularity helps practice virtue.
Key Takeaway
Seek influence to aid virtue.
Themes
virtue
wisdom
popularity
influence
ethics
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- community organizing
- charitable work
- public speaking
Key Concepts
social capital
moral philosophy
public perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one balance popularity with authentic virtue?
- When does seeking popularity undermine wisdom?
A Different Perspective
Popularity can be superficial and may compromise integrity.
![“I will insist the Hebrews have [contributed] more to civilize men than any other nation. If I was an atheist and believed in blind eternal fate, I should still believe that fate had ordained the Jews to be the most essential instrument for civilizing the nations. They are the most glorious nation…” quote by John Adams](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e34/john-adams-529_affair_i-will-insist-the-hebrews-have-contribut_104004.jpg)
