Skip to content

Amusement Quote by Samuel Johnson

“I am a great friend to public amusements; for they keep people from vice.” quote by Samuel Johnson
Download Open image
“I am a great friend to public amusements; for they keep people from vice.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Idler, 1759

He suggests public entertainment distracts people from immoral behavior, acting as a moral safeguard.

In simple terms: Fun keeps people away from vice.

Key Takeaway

Support healthy public amusements.

Themes

morality entertainment social control

Mood

reflective balanced

Type

philosophical commentary

When to use this quote

  • theater
  • cinema
  • sports events
  • festivals

Key Concepts

ethics cultural studies

Questions to Reflect On

  • What forms of amusement are truly wholesome?
  • How to ensure they promote good?
A Different Perspective

Entertainment can also enable vice.

3.3 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Samuel Johnson

Explore all 1,998 Samuel Johnson quotes

More Amusement quotes

Browse all 567 Amusement quotes