Ambitious Quote by Joseph Heller
“Major Major had lied, and it was good. He was not really surprised that it was good, for he had observed that people who did lie were, on the whole, more resourceful and ambitious and successful than people who did not lie.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Catch-22, Joseph Heller, 1961
Lying is portrayed as a tool for the ambitious, suggesting moral flexibility can aid success.
In simple terms: Lying may help the ambitious succeed.
Key Takeaway
We moral choices carefully.
Themes
ethics
ambition
deception
Mood
cynical
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- political campaigns
- personal relationships
- creative writing
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
social dynamics
power structures
Questions to Reflect On
- Is dishonesty ever justified for success?
- What are the long‑term costs of lying?
A Different Perspective
Success achieved through deceit can erode trust and integrity.
