Character Quote by Woodrow Wilson
“It recognizes no morality but a sham morality meant for deceit, no honor even among thieves and of a thievish sort, no force but physical force, no intellectual power but cunning, no disgrace but failure, no crime but stupidity.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on International Relations, 1919
He critiques that morality can be a façade used for deception, lacking true honor or intellectual substance.
In simple terms: Morality can be a sham used for deceit.
Key Takeaway
Beware of false moral claims.
Themes
ethics
deception
power
intellect
failure
stupidity
Mood
skeptical
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- legal judgments
- personal relationships
- leadership decisions
Key Concepts
philosophy
political theory
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- Is morality ever truly pure?
- How can we discern genuine virtue?
A Different Perspective
Such critiques may overlook genuine altruistic motives.
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