Plagiarists, at least, have the merit of preservation.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Even thieves of ideas preserve them for future generations.
- In plain terms
- Copycats keep works alive even if they steal them.
- What can you take from it?
- Consider preservation value even in unoriginal work.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does copying help or hurt culture?
- Can value exist without originality?
Another view
It downplays the ethical harm of stealing credit.
More from Benjamin Disraeli
Moderation has been called a virtue to limit the ambition of great men, and to console undistinguished people for their want of fortune and their lack of merit.
Permalink to quote #250 Seeing much, suffering much, and studying much, are the three pillars of learning.
Permalink to quote #252 Mediocrity can talk; but it is for genius to observe.
Permalink to quote #249
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