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About this quote

What does it mean?
La Rochefoucauld argues that many virtues are actually disguised vices.
In plain terms
Most virtues are often just hidden flaws.
What can you take from it?
People often mask their weaknesses as strengths.

Where it applies

  • analyzing behavior
  • moral philosophy

Putting it to work

  • character analysis
  • self-reflection

Questions to consider

  • Can virtue exist without self-interest?
  • How do we distinguish true virtue from appearance?

Another view

This view is cynical and may overlook genuine goodness.

More from Francois de La Rochefoucauld

  1. Ce que nous prenons pour des vertus n'est souvent qu'un assemblage de diverses actions et de divers interets, que la fortune ou notre industrie savent arranger…

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  2. L'amour-propre est le plus grand de tous les flatteurs.

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  3. La passion fait souvent un fou du plus habile homme, et rend souvent les plus sots habiles.

    Permalink to quote #4

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