Defects Quote by Voltaire
“Time, which alone makes the reputation of men, ends by making their defects respectable.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Candide, 1759
Time can turn flaws into accepted traits, reshaping how society judges character.
In simple terms: Time makes flaws seem normal.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how time reshapes reputation.
Themes
reputation
time
social perception
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- personal branding
- public scrutiny
- leadership
Key Concepts
philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How does time change your view of personal flaws?
- Can you prevent time from normalizing a defect?
A Different Perspective
Time may also amplify negative traits if not addressed.
![“The sense of tragedy - according to Aristotle - comes, ironically enough, not from the protagonist's weak points but from his good qualities. Do you know what I'm getting at? People are drawn deeper into tragedy not by their defects but by their virtues. ... [But] we accept irony through a device…” quote by Haruki Murakami](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aa9/haruki-murakami-21_accepting_the-sense-of-tragedy-according-to-aristo_23796.jpg)
