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About this quote

What does it mean?
The quote admits decisions are made based on profit rather than principles.
In plain terms
I choose actions based on what pays best not on principles.
What can you take from it?
Profit often drives decisions more than principles.

Where it applies

  • business decisions
  • ethical conflicts
  • financial planning

Putting it to work

  • prioritize profitability
  • question principles vs profit
  • plan pragmatic courses

Questions to consider

  • Do you choose based on profit or principles?
  • Is profit a valid guide?

Another view

It dismisses the value of principles in favor of monetary gain.

More from James Russell Lowell

  1. I don't believe in princerple, But oh I du in interest.

    Permalink to quote #60
  2. God makes sech nights, all white an' still, Fur'z you can look or listen, Moonshine an' snow on field an' hill, All silence an' all glisten.

    Permalink to quote #62
  3. I du believe with all my soul In the gret Press's freedom, To pint the people to the goal An' in the traces lead 'em.

    Permalink to quote #59

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