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Consequence Quote by Lord Chesterfield

“The greatest dangers have their allurements, if the want of success is likely to be attended with a degree of glory. Middling dangers are horrid, when the loss of reputation is the inevitable consequence of ill success.” quote by Lord Chesterfield
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“The greatest dangers have their allurements, if the want of success is likely to be attended with a degree of glory. Middling dangers are horrid, when the loss of reputation is the inevitable consequence of ill success.”

Lord Chesterfield

About This Quote

Source Essay: Letters to His Son, 1748

Great risks can be tempting because success brings fame, but moderate risks can be damaging when failure harms reputation.

In simple terms: Big risks may bring glory; moderate risks can ruin reputation.

Key Takeaway

Weigh risk versus reward carefully.

Themes

risk reputation success

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career decisions
  • investment choices
  • public speaking
  • entrepreneurship

Key Concepts

honor consequence ambition

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is the potential fame worth the possible damage to your name?
  • How do you balance ambition with integrity?
A Different Perspective

Success may not always justify the risk; reputation loss can be severe.

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