On n'est jamais excusable d'etre mechant, mais il y a quelque merite a savoir qu'on l'est; et le plus irreparable des vices est de faire le mal par betise.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Being cruel is never excusable, but recognizing one's own cruelty has merit; the worst vice is harming out of foolishness.
- In plain terms
- Acknowledging cruelty is important, and the worst harm comes from stupid actions.
- What can you take from it?
- Self‑awareness can prevent harmful stupidity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How can you detect cruelty in yourself early?
- What safeguards stop foolish harm?
Another view
Some may argue that intent matters more than awareness.
More from Charles Baudelaire
Il n'est pas de plaisir plus doux que de surprendre un homme en lui donnant plus qu'il n'espere.
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