It really is of importance, not only what men do, but also what manner of men they are that do it. Among the works of man, which human life is rightly employed in perfecting and beautifying, the first in importance surely is man himself. (p. 73)
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The character of people matters as much as their actions in perfecting human life.
- In plain terms
- Who people are is as important as what they do.
- What can you take from it?
- Focus on personal character alongside actions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What defines good character?
- Does character matter more than deeds?
Another view
It implies a universal standard for what makes life perfect.
More from John Stuart Mill
All languages and literatures are full of general observations on life, both as to what it is, and how to conduct oneself in it; observations which everybody k…
Permalink to quote #40 It will probably be conceded that it is desirable people should exercise their understandings, and that an intelligent following of custom, or even occasionall…
Permalink to quote #42 However unwillingly a person who has a strong opinion may admit the possibility that his opinion may be false, he ought to be moved by the consideration that, …
Permalink to quote #39
Related quotes
What we do belongs to what we are; and what we are is what becomes of us.
Henry van DykeHenry van Dyke quote #4 Only what we have wrought into our character during life can we take away with us.
Alexander von HumboldtAlexander von Humboldt quote #11 Not every man is so great a coward as he thinks he is - nor yet so good a Christian.
Robert Louis StevensonRobert Louis Stevenson quote #11