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Giving Quote by Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach

“To have and not to give is often worse than to steal.” quote by Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach
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“To have and not to give is often worse than to steal.”

Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach

About This Quote

Source Play: Der Komet, 1885

Keeping something without sharing can feel more immoral than taking it from another.

In simple terms: Holding without giving is worse than stealing.

Key Takeaway

Share what you have.

Themes

generosity ethics ownership

Mood

guilty reflective

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family inheritance
  • workplace resources
  • community aid

Key Concepts

Moral philosophy social contract

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you kept something selfishly?
  • Can withholding be a form of control?
A Different Perspective

It may be justified in survival contexts.

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