Bad man Quote by John Dewey
“The bad man is the man who no matter how good he has been is beginning to deteriorate, to grow less good. The good man is the man who no matter how morally unworthy he has been is moving to become better. Such a conception makes one severe in judging himself and humane in judging others.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Experience and Nature, John Dewey, 1925
Moral character is fluid; goodness can decline while badness can improve, urging humility in self‑judgment and compassion toward others.
In simple terms: People can change for better or worse.
Key Takeaway
Judge yourself gently, judge others kindly.
Themes
morality
humility
personal growth
Mood
thoughtful
empathetic
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- self‑reflection
- conflict resolution
- leadership
- teaching
- counseling
Key Concepts
ethical development
character fluidity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you measure personal improvement?
- What steps foster compassion for others' flaws?
A Different Perspective
People may resist acknowledging their own decline.
