Calculating Quote by Yamamoto Tsunetomo
“Calculating people are contemptable. The reason for this is that calculation deals with loss and gain, and the loss and gain mind never stops. Death is considered loss and life is considered gain. Thus, death is something that such a person does not care for, and he is contemptable. Furthermore, scholars and their like are men who with wit and speech hide their own true cowardice and greed. People often misjudge this.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Hagakure, 1716
Calculators focus on profit/loss, ignoring moral depth; scholars hide cowardice behind intellect.
In simple terms: Moral emptiness in calculation.
Key Takeaway
Seek ethical grounding beyond numbers.
Themes
ethics
philosophy
critique
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- business decisions
- academic discourse
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
intellectual humility
Questions to Reflect On
- How does calculation affect morality?
- Can intellect coexist with virtue?
A Different Perspective
Risk of oversimplifying complex motives.
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