Balance Quote by Nicolas Chamfort
“Education must have two foundations --morality as a support for virtue, prudence as a defense for self against the vices of others. By letting the balance incline to the side of morality, you only make dupes or martyrs; by letting it incline to the other, you make calculating egoists.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "Maximes et Pensées", 1760
Moral and prudent foundations must balance; overemphasis on either creates dupes, martyrs, or selfish calculators.
In simple terms: Balance morality and prudence to avoid extremes.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate both virtue and practical wisdom.
Themes
ethics
virtue
prudence
Mood
thoughtful
instructive
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- education curricula
- personal development
- leadership training
- policy design
Key Concepts
philosophy
human nature
balance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can education teach balanced moral and practical judgment?
- What safeguards prevent moral or pragmatic excess?
A Different Perspective
Real‑world application of abstract virtues is complex.
