Action Quote by Madeleine de Souvre, marquise de Sable
“It is better that great peoples should seek out glory, or even vanity, in their deeds, than that they should remain indifferent . For even if they are not incited to act upon virtuous principles, at least there is the saving grace that they will do things they might not have done had not vanity prompted their actions.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Private correspondence, Madeleine de Souvre, 19th century
Vanity can motivate deeds that virtue alone may not inspire, providing a saving grace.
In simple terms: Vanity drives action when virtue is absent.
Key Takeaway
Channel vanity into positive outcomes.
Themes
motivation
human nature
ethics
vanity
Mood
thoughtful
philosophical
Type
ethical
psychological
When to use this quote
- personal development
- leadership coaching
- creative pursuits
- social activism
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
psychology
philosophy
behavioral drive
moral theory
Questions to Reflect On
- Can vanity be ethically redirected?
- What are the risks of relying on vanity?
A Different Perspective
Vanity may lead to harmful egoism.
