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Calling Quote by Theodore Roosevelt

“Character is far more important than intellect in making a man a good citizen or successful at his calling- meaning by character not only such qualities as honesty and truthfulness, but courage, perseverance and self-reliance.” quote by Theodore Roosevelt
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“Character is far more important than intellect in making a man a good citizen or successful at his calling- meaning by character not only such qualities as honesty and truthfulness, but courage, perseverance and self-reliance.”

Theodore Roosevelt

About This Quote

Source Speech: National Conservation Conference, 1908

Character, encompassing honesty, courage, perseverance, and self-reliance, outweighs intellect for civic virtue and professional success.

In simple terms: Character beats intellect for good citizenship and success.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate integrity and resilience.

Themes

integrity courage self-reliance leadership

Mood

inspirational serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public service
  • career advancement
  • community involvement

Key Concepts

moral philosophy personal development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance intellect and character in daily decisions?
  • What habits build character?
A Different Perspective

Character alone cannot solve technical problems without knowledge.

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