Character Quote by Solon
“For often evil men are rich, and good men poor; But we will not exchange with them Our virtue for their wealth since one abides always, While riches change their owners every day.”
About This Quote
Source Ancient Greek:, Solon, c. 6th century BC
Wealth is fleeting and morally irrelevant; virtue should not be traded for riches.
In simple terms: Riches change, virtue stays.
Value virtue over wealth.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- personal finance
- social justice
- philanthropy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you live virtuously without material comfort?
- How does society reward virtue?
Wealth can enable positive change if used wisely.