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About this quote

What does it mean?
Virtue that needs constant guarding is not truly virtuous or valuable.
In plain terms
True virtue does not need constant watching.
What can you take from it?
Genuine goodness is self sustaining.

Where it applies

  • ethical leadership
  • personal integrity
  • evaluation

Putting it to work

  • cultivate internal habits
  • audit values

Questions to consider

  • Can virtue be forced?
  • Is constant vigilance natural?

Another view

Some external monitoring prevents lapses.

More from Oliver Goldsmith

  1. Handsome is that handsome does.

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  2. I find you want me to furnish you with argument and intellects too.

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  3. We sometimes had those little rubs which Providence sends to enhance the value of its favors.

    Permalink to quote #30

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