Cards Quote by Samuel Johnson
“Most vices may be committed very genteelly: a man may debauch his friend's wife genteelly: he may cheat at cards genteelly”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, 1759
Even immoral acts can be performed with refined manners, revealing hypocrisy.
In simple terms: Politeness can mask vice.
Key Takeaway
Judge actions, not just manners.
Themes
morality
hypocrisy
social etiquette
vice
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- courtroom proceedings
- political negotiations
- social gatherings
- business deals
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
social class
behavioral norms
Questions to Reflect On
- What is the impact of “gentle” vice?
- Can etiquette be reformed?
A Different Perspective
Politeness may still cause harm.
![“The general tendency [is] to be censorious of the vices to which one has not been tempted.” quote by Rebecca West](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/524/rebecca-west-1248_tempted_the-general-tendency-is-to-be-censorious_2967019.jpg)
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