Doubt Quote by Pliny the Younger
“Never do a thing concerning the rectitude of which you are in doubt.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Letters of Pliny the Younger, Book 3, Letter 5, 1st century AD
Act only when you are certain of its moral correctness; avoid actions clouded by doubt.
In simple terms: Do only what you are sure is right.
Key Takeaway
Seek clarity before acting.
Themes
ethics
decision making
integrity
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal dilemmas
- legal judgments
- business decisions
- ethical debates
Key Concepts
moral certainty
prudence
Questions to Reflect On
- What doubts are preventing you from acting?
- How can you test the rectitude of an action?
A Different Perspective
Even with certainty, over‑analysis can stall progress.
![“A tribute . . . is due to the talents, the rectitude, and the patriotism, which adorn the characters selected to devise and adopt [the Constitution]. In these honorable qualifications I behold the surest pledges that as on one side no local prejudices or attachments no separate views, nor party…” quote by George Washington](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/afb/george-washington-257_animosity_a-tribute-is-due-to-the-talents-the-rect_331519.jpg)
![“[Pliny the Elder] used to say that “no book was so bad but some good might be got out of it.” quote by Pliny the Younger](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/13e/pliny-the-younger-15981_books_pliny-the-elder-used-to-say-that-no-book_691761.jpg)
