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Color Quote by Thomas Paine

“There is something in corruption which, like a jaundiced eye, transfers the color of itself to the object it looks upon, and sees everything stained and impure.” quote by Thomas Paine
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“There is something in corruption which, like a jaundiced eye, transfers the color of itself to the object it looks upon, and sees everything stained and impure.”

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

Source Essay: Common Sense, 1776

Corruption taints both the corruptor and what they judge, spreading impurity like a colored lens.

In simple terms: Corruption spreads impurity.

Key Takeaway

Beware influence and its influence.

Themes

morality corruption perception

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

ethical analytical

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • judicial decisions
  • media reporting
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

psychology social influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your own bias affect your judgments?
  • Can you see beyond the “colored lens”?
A Different Perspective

Corruption may also be a symptom, not just a cause.

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