Skip to content

Believe Quote by Robert Louis Stevenson

“I have seen wicked men and fools, a great many of both; and I believe they both get paid in the end; but the fools first.” quote by Robert Louis Stevenson
Download Open image
“I have seen wicked men and fools, a great many of both; and I believe they both get paid in the end; but the fools first.”

Robert Louis Stevenson

About This Quote

Both corrupt and foolish people eventually reap rewards, but fools tend to profit earlier than the wicked.

In simple terms: Fools get paid first, then the wicked.

Key Takeaway

Success can favor the naïve before the truly corrupt.

Themes

justice morality reward human nature

Mood

wry cynical

Type

observation maxim

When to use this quote

  • Corporate promotions
  • Political scandals
  • Lottery winnings

Key Concepts

inequity karma

Practical Applications

  • Recognize early opportunities
  • Balance risk with integrity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do societies sometimes celebrate foolishness?
  • Can the wicked eventually outlast the fools?
A Different Perspective

Overlooks systemic factors that may delay or prevent rewards for either group.

2.9 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Robert Louis Stevenson

Explore all 701 Robert Louis Stevenson quotes

More Believe quotes

Browse all 44,777 Believe quotes