Folly Quote by Samuel Johnson
“Though the wisdom or virtue of one can very rarely make many happy, the folly or vice of one man often make many miserable.”
About This Quote
Individual virtue rarely benefits many, while a single vice can cause widespread misery.
In simple terms: One bad act can harm many.
Promote collective well‑being over individual virtue.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- community leadership
- education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies amplify good deeds?
- What safeguards prevent one’s vice from spreading?
Virtue may be insufficient without systemic support.