That virtue which requires to be ever guarded is scarce worth the sentinel.
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
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can virtue be forced?
- Is constant vigilance natural?
Another view
Some external monitoring prevents lapses.
More from Oliver Goldsmith
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