Accounts Quote by Samuel Johnson
![“Hoc age ['do this'] is the great rule, whether you are serious or merry; whether ... learning science or duty from a folio, or floating on the Thames. Intentions must be gathered from acts.” quote by Samuel Johnson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c06/samuel-johnson-50_accounts_hoc-age-do-this-is-the-great-rule-whethe_1863783.jpg)
“Hoc age ['do this'] is the great rule, whether you are serious or merry; whether ... learning science or duty from a folio, or floating on the Thames. Intentions must be gathered from acts.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Rambler, No. 12, 1750
Actions, not intentions, define moral judgment; one must evaluate deeds to understand purpose
In simple terms: Deeds reveal true intentions, not words
Key Takeaway
Judge by actions, not just intentions
Themes
ethics
behavioral analysis
philosophy
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
didactic
When to use this quote
- legal judgments
- personal relationships
- educational assessments
- leadership evaluations
Key Concepts
moral responsibility
intentionality
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we reliably infer intentions from actions?
- When are intentions more important than outcomes?
A Different Perspective
People may mask motives, making assessment difficult
