Skip to content

Ashamed Quote by Thucydides

“Indeed it is generally the case that men are readier to call rogues clever than simpletons honest, and are ashamed of being the second as they are proud of being the first.” quote by Thucydides
Download Open image
“Indeed it is generally the case that men are readier to call rogues clever than simpletons honest, and are ashamed of being the second as they are proud of being the first.”

Thucydides

About This Quote

People tend to praise cleverness in villains while valuing honesty in fools, feeling pride in being clever and shame in being honest.

In simple terms: Cleverness is praised, honesty scorned.

Key Takeaway

Beware bias in moral judgments.

Themes

ethics perception pride shame honesty

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • political rhetoric
  • media commentary
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

psychology social dynamics philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we elevate cunning over integrity?
  • Can honesty be strategic?
A Different Perspective

Oversimplifies complex moral landscapes.

2.7 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Thucydides

Explore all 160 Thucydides quotes

More Ashamed quotes

Browse all 1,607 Ashamed quotes