Amiable Quote by Joseph Addison
“Nothing is more amiable than true modesty, and nothing more contemptible than the false. The one guards virtue, the other betrays it.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Spectator, No. 311, 1712
True modesty protects virtue while false modesty undermines it, revealing character.
In simple terms: Genuine humility supports virtue; fake humility harms it.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate authentic humility.
Themes
humility
virtue
authenticity
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- leadership
- public speaking
- team dynamics
Key Concepts
character
integrity
self-awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does humility affect trust?
- When might modesty be misused?
A Different Perspective
False modesty can be socially rewarded, making honesty harder.
