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Caution Quote by Natalia Ginzburg

“As far as the education of children is concerned I think they should be taught not the little virtues but the great ones. Not thrift but generosity and an indifference to money; not caution but courage and a contempt for danger; not shrewdness but frankness and a love of truth; not tact but love…” quote by Natalia Ginzburg
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“As far as the education of children is concerned I think they should be taught not the little virtues but the great ones. Not thrift but generosity and an indifference to money; not caution but courage and a contempt for danger; not shrewdness but frankness and a love of truth; not tact but love for one's neighbor and self-denial; not a desire for success but a desire to be and to know.”

Natalia Ginzburg

About This Quote

Source Essay: On Education, Natalia Ginzburg, 1975

Education should prioritize profound virtues like generosity, courage, truth, and self‑denial over superficial traits.

In simple terms: Teach big values, not small ones.

Key Takeaway

Focus on cultivating deep moral character.

Themes

education virtues character generosity courage truth self‑denial

Mood

reflective inspirational thoughtful

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • school curricula
  • personal development
  • community building

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics pedagogy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can schools integrate great virtues into daily lessons?
  • What obstacles arise when teaching courage?
A Different Perspective

Balancing practical skills with moral teaching is challenging.

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