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Caution Quote by Samuel Johnson

“Those who are in the power of evil habits must conquer them as they can; and conquered they must be, or neither wisdom nor happiness can be attained: but those who are not yet subject to their influence may, by timely caution, preserve their freedom;” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“Those who are in the power of evil habits must conquer them as they can; and conquered they must be, or neither wisdom nor happiness can be attained: but those who are not yet subject to their influence may, by timely caution, preserve their freedom;”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Rambler, 1750

Evil habits dominate unless actively resisted; without overcoming them, wisdom and happiness remain out of reach.

In simple terms: Bad habits block wisdom and joy.

Key Takeaway

Conquer harmful habits to gain freedom.

Themes

self-discipline wisdom freedom habit

Mood

reflective serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • mental health
  • decision making
  • addiction recovery

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics self‑control

Questions to Reflect On

  • What habit limits your growth?
  • How can you create timely caution?
A Different Perspective

Habits can be deeply ingrained, making change difficult.

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