Believe Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“The human character, we believe, requires in general constant and immediate control to prevent its being biased from right by the seductions of self-love.”
About This Quote
Source Writings: Letters to John Adams, 1799
Human nature tends toward self‑interest, requiring constant vigilance to stay moral.
In simple terms: Self‑interest needs control.
Key Takeaway
Practice self‑awareness.
Themes
morality
self‑control
human nature
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- leadership
- policy making
- education
- media consumption
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize self‑love bias?
- What habits keep you accountable?
A Different Perspective
Self‑control alone cannot eliminate bias.
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