No man is entirely free from weakness and imperfection in this life. Men of the most exalted genius and active minds are generally most perfect slaves to the love of fame. They sometimes descend to as mean tricks and artifices in pursuit of honor or reputation as the miser descends to in pursuit of gold.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Even the most brilliant and active people are still driven by the desire for fame, often resorting to low tactics like those seeking money.
- In plain terms
- Great minds can become slaves to fame and act dishonestly.
- What can you take from it?
- Beware letting fame dictate your actions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What drives your ambition?
- How do you balance recognition and integrity?
Another view
Not all powerful people succumb to fame; many remain principled.
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