Skip to content

Ifs Quote by Michel de Montaigne

“A wise man loses nothing, if he but save himself.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
Download Open image
“A wise man loses nothing, if he but save himself.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

Source Essay: Essays, Book III, 1580

A wise person preserves nothing by selfishly protecting themselves; true wisdom involves self‑sacrifice.

In simple terms: Wisdom requires self‑lessness, not self‑preservation.

Key Takeaway

Practice humility and service.

Themes

wisdom selflessness ethics

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

philosophy moral psychology Stoicism

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is self‑care justified?
  • How to balance self‑interest and altruism?
A Different Perspective

Self‑preservation can be necessary for survival in dangerous contexts.

4.0 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Michel de Montaigne

Explore all 1,132 Michel de Montaigne quotes

More Ifs quotes

Browse all 94,309 Ifs quotes