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Absence Quote by Philip James Bailey

“There is no surer mark of the absence of the highest moral and intellectual qualities than a cold reception of excellence.” quote by Philip James Bailey
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“There is no surer mark of the absence of the highest moral and intellectual qualities than a cold reception of excellence.”

Philip James Bailey

About This Quote

Source Poem: "The Mystic" (1844)

Excellence often meets cold indifference, revealing moral emptiness.

In simple terms: Greatness can be ignored, showing lack of virtue.

Key Takeaway

Seek humility over external accolades.

Themes

philosophy ethics society excellence

Mood

melancholic critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic discourse
  • art criticism
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

moral decay social reception intellectual void

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do societies reject excellence?
  • How can we foster appreciation for virtue?
A Different Perspective

Societal values may undervalue true merit.

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