People praise virtue, but they hate it, they run away from it. It freezes you to death, and in this world you've got to keep your feet warm.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People claim to value virtue but avoid it because it demands sacrifice in a harsh world.
- In plain terms
- People say they like virtue but avoid it to stay comfortable.
- What can you take from it?
- Virtue is often rejected because it is costly.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is virtue too hard for society?
- Why do we reject what we praise?
Another view
Some people genuinely strive for virtue despite costs.
More from Denis Diderot
Bad company is as instructive as licentiousness. One makes up for the loss of one's innocence with the loss of one's prejudices.
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