Be good Quote by Oscar Wilde
“To be good, according to the vulgar standard of goodness, is obviously quite easy. It merely requires a certain amount of sordid terror, a certain lack of imaginative thought, and a certain low passion for middle-class respectability.”
About This Quote
Source Play: An Ideal Husband, Oscar Wilde, 1895
Critiques conventional morality as easy, requiring fear, lack of imagination, and desire for respectability rather than true virtue.
In simple terms: Goodness is often superficial and fear‑driven.
Key Takeaway
Question societal standards of goodness.
Themes
morality
society
critique
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
satirical
When to use this quote
- social commentary
- philosophical debate
- education
Key Concepts
conformity
ethical superficiality
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines true goodness?
- How does fear shape moral behavior?
A Different Perspective
Might overlook genuine altruism.
