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About this quote

What does it mean?
Betrayal requires a moral bond, so the only true betrayal is of one's own conscience.
In plain terms
You can only betray yourself if there is no real bond.
What can you take from it?
Conscience is the only true loyalty.

Where it applies

  • moral dilemma
  • personal reflection
  • ethical debate

Putting it to work

  • evaluating choices
  • honoring conscience
  • understanding betrayal

Questions to consider

  • What is real loyalty?
  • Can you betray others?

Another view

It ignores social bonds like family or country.

More from Joseph Conrad

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  3. A man's real life is that accorded to him in the thoughts of other men by reason of respect or natural love.

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