--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: In the motive lies the good or ill." description: "\"In the motive lies the good or ill.\" — Samuel Johnson" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/ab9/samuel-johnson-50_good_in-the-motive-lies-the-good-or-ill-30488_3048898.png" --- # In the motive lies the good or ill. ![“In the motive lies the good or ill.” quote by Samuel Johnson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/ab9/samuel-johnson-50_good_in-the-motive-lies-the-good-or-ill-30488_3048898.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/ab9/samuel-johnson-50_good_in-the-motive-lies-the-good-or-ill-30488_3048898.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/ab9/samuel-johnson-50_good_in-the-motive-lies-the-good-or-ill-30488_3048898.png) > “In the motive lies the good or ill.” [Samuel Johnson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/samuel-johnson/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Intentions determine whether actions are good or bad. **In simple terms:** Motive defines moral value. Key Takeaway Examine motives before acting. Themes ethics intent morality Mood contemplative serious Type philosophical ethical When to use this quote - decision making - leadership - personal development Key Concepts philosophical inquiry character assessment Questions to Reflect On - What drives your choices? - How can you align actions with noble intent? A Different Perspective Motives can be ambiguous. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [Ill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/ill/) [Inspirational](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/inspirational/) [Lying](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/lying/) [Motive](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/motive/) ## Related quotes > [“Motive lies behind action. It is the root of behaviour and attitude, the fuel we need to progress from desire to achievement. 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