Able Quote by Joseph Addison
“Cunning has only private selfish aims, and sticks at nothing which may make them succeed. Discretion has large and extended views, and, like a well-formed eye, commands a whole horizon; cunning is a kind of shortsightedness, that discovers the minutest objects which are near at hand, but is not able to discern things at a distance.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Spectator, No. 306, 1712
Cunning focuses on immediate personal gain, lacking long‑term vision, while discretion sees the broader picture and plans ahead.
In simple terms: Cunning is short‑sighted; discretion sees far.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate broad perspective over narrow self‑interest.
Themes
strategy
vision
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- business planning
- personal relationships
- political decision making
Key Concepts
shortsightedness
foresight
holistic thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance immediate advantage with future impact?
- When does discretion become indecision?
A Different Perspective
Cunning can succeed in narrow tasks but may fail in complex, long‑range goals.
