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About this quote

What does it mean?
Everyone has some capacity for bad behavior, but outward appearances can still seem trustworthy.
In plain terms
People may hide their worse nature behind a honest face.
What can you take from it?
Do not judge character solely on appearance.

Where it applies

  • evaluating strangers
  • hiring decisions
  • political rhetoric

Putting it to work

  • verify actions over words
  • look for inconsistencies

Questions to consider

  • What signs betray hidden bad intent?
  • Can appearance ever truly reflect character?

Another view

This assumes everyone has an equal capacity for villainy.

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