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Epitaph Quote by Samuel Johnson

“In lapidary inscriptions a man is not upon oath.” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“In lapidary inscriptions a man is not upon oath.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Idler, 1759

The quote suggests that formal promises are less reliable than personal integrity.

In simple terms: Words can be empty; character matters.

Key Takeaway

Judge people by actions, not vows.

Themes

integrity trust words

Mood

skeptical reflective

Type

aphilosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • political pledges
  • business agreements
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

ethics honor social contracts

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you trust a promise or the person?
  • How can you verify integrity?
A Different Perspective

Promises may be broken despite good intentions.

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