Skip to content

Attention Quote by John Steinbeck

“We value virtue but do not discuss it. The honest bookkeeper, the faithful wife, the earnest scholar get little of our attention compared to the embezzler, the tramp, the cheat.” quote by John Steinbeck
Download Open image
“We value virtue but do not discuss it. The honest bookkeeper, the faithful wife, the earnest scholar get little of our attention compared to the embezzler, the tramp, the cheat.”

John Steinbeck

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Grapes of Wrath, 1939

Society praises virtue but focuses attention on scandalous or negative figures, neglecting everyday goodness.

In simple terms: Virtue ignored, scandal highlighted.

Key Takeaway

Highlight and reward everyday virtue.

Themes

morality attention social values

Mood

reflective critical

Type

literary social

When to use this quote

  • community building
  • journalism
  • education
  • policy making

Key Concepts

virtue ethics media bias recognition

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we shift focus to everyday heroes?
  • What platforms can celebrate ordinary virtue?
A Different Perspective

Positive stories may lack sensational appeal.

2.4 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by John Steinbeck

Explore all 1,589 John Steinbeck quotes

More Attention quotes

Browse all 10,153 Attention quotes