Character Quote by Thomas Paine
“We feel something like respect for consistency even in error. We lament the virtue that is debauched into a vice; but the vice that affects a virtue becomes the more detestable.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Virtue of Consistency, 1791
We respect consistency, even when it errs; a vice corrupting a virtue becomes especially detestable.
In simple terms: Consistent errors are troubling.
Key Takeaway
Guard against blind consistency.
Themes
ethics
consistency
vice
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- personal habits
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you break consistency?
- How to balance consistency with flexibility?
A Different Perspective
Rigid consistency may hinder necessary change.
