Feet Quote by John Galt
“The cloven-foot of self-interest was now and then to be seen aneath the robe of public principle.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, 1957
Self‑interest can masquerade as public virtue, revealing hidden motives behind policies.
In simple terms: Self‑interest sometimes hides as public principle.
Key Takeaway
Scrutinize motives behind public statements.
Themes
politics
ethics
power
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- leadership decisions
- public discourse
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we differentiate genuine public interest from hidden self‑interest?
- When is self‑interest beneficial?
A Different Perspective
Not all self‑interest is negative; it can drive innovation.
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