Action Quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
“What is morally wrong can never be advantageous, even when it enables you to make some gain that you believe to be to your advantage. The mere act of believing that some wrongful course of action constitutes an advantage is pernicious.”
About This Quote
Acting unethically may seem beneficial, but it ultimately harms integrity and can backfire, making any perceived advantage hollow.
In simple terms: Wrong actions may look useful but damage trust and self‑respect.
Key Takeaway
Choose integrity over short‑term gain.
Themes
ethics
integrity
consequences
trust
self‑respect
Mood
reflective
cautious
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- business decisions
- personal relationships
- political strategy
- legal compliance
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
psychology of rationalization
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you weigh immediate benefit against future integrity?
- Can a perceived advantage justify unethical behavior?
A Different Perspective
Short‑term gains often ignore long‑term costs and reputational damage.
![“Things sacred should not only be touched with the hands, but unviolated in thought. [Lat., Res sacros non modo manibus attingi, sed ne cogitatione quidem violari fas fuit.]” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/deb/marcus-tullius-cicero-157_hands_things-sacred-should-not-only-be-touched_11960.jpg)
