Friendship Quote by Montesquieu
““A truly virtuous man would come to the aid of the most distant stranger as quickly as to his own friend. If men were perfectly virtuous, they wouldn’t have friends.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: On the Nature of Virtue, Montesquieu, 1748
True virtue is selfless aid to strangers, suggesting that perfect virtue would eliminate the need for personal friendships.
In simple terms: Virtue means helping anyone selflessly.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate selfless compassion.
Themes
ethics
human nature
friendship
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- volunteer work
- community service
- conflict mediation
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
philosophy
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- Can one balance selfless aid with personal relationships?
- Is friendship necessary for societal cohesion?
A Different Perspective
Self-sacrifice may lead to burnout.
![“[92] Plato, in his fourth book of Laws, says that the præfectures of music and gymnic exercises are the most important employments in the city; and, in his Republic, iii, Damon will tell you, says he, what sounds are capable of corrupting the mind with base sentiments, or of inspiring the contrary…” quote by Montesquieu](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/316/montesquieu-19593_books_92-plato-in-his-fourth-book-of-laws-says_1724267.jpg)
