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Ancient Quote by Victor Davis Hanson

“Ancient wisdom: deal in personal trust; your word is your bond; avoid extremes; treat the money you invest for others as something sacred; don't take any more perks than you would wish others to take; don't borrow what you couldn't suddenly pay back; imagine the worse case financial scenario and…” quote by Victor Davis Hanson
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“Ancient wisdom: deal in personal trust; your word is your bond; avoid extremes; treat the money you invest for others as something sacred; don't take any more perks than you would wish others to take; don't borrow what you couldn't suddenly pay back; imagine the worse case financial scenario and expect it very may well happen; the wealthier you become the more humble you should act.”

Victor Davis Hanson

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Moral Foundations of Finance, 2019

Advocates ethical financial conduct: trust, humility, prudence, and anticipating risk, urging modesty despite wealth.

In simple terms: Ethical finance requires trust and humility.

Key Takeaway

Practice modest, responsible investing.

Themes

ethics finance humility risk management

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • investment decisions
  • loan agreements
  • personal budgeting
  • wealth management

Key Concepts

trust moderation financial prudence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance humility with ambition?
  • What safeguards protect against reckless borrowing?
A Different Perspective

Ideal behavior may clash with competitive markets.

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