Different Quote by Lucan
“As far as the stars are from the earth, and as different as fire is from water, so much do self-interest and integrity differ.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: Pharsalia (Civil War) by Lucan, 1st century AD
Self‑interest and integrity are fundamentally opposed, like fire and water.
In simple terms: Self‑interest clashes with integrity.
Key Takeaway
Align actions with integrity over personal gain.
Themes
ethics
integrity
self‑interest
Mood
serious
contemplative
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- business decisions
- political leadership
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
moral conflict
principle vs desire
Questions to Reflect On
- What compromises have you made between self‑interest and integrity?
- When is self‑interest justified?
A Different Perspective
Integrity can be costly in competitive environments.
