Character Quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
“All sympathy not consistent with acknowledged virtue is but disguised selfishness.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner", 1798
Sympathy that lacks genuine virtue masks selfish motives, as it seeks personal gain rather than true compassion.
In simple terms: Fake sympathy is selfish.
Key Takeaway
Check the sincerity behind compassion.
Themes
ethics
self‑interest
compassion
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
ethical
observational
When to use this quote
- charitable work
- interpersonal relationships
- conflict resolution
- leadership
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you seen insincere sympathy?
- How can you ensure your empathy is genuine?
A Different Perspective
People may use sympathy to manipulate rather than help.
