To be good, according to the vulgar standard of goodness, is obviously quite easy. It merely requires a certain amount of sordid terror, a certain lack of imaginative thought, and a certain low passion for middle-class respectability.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Wilde critiques that being good by ordinary standards is easy, requiring conformity and fear rather than imagination.
- In plain terms
- Being 'good' by common standards is easy and uncreative.
- What can you take from it?
- True goodness may require imagination and courage.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What defines authentic goodness?
- How can imagination enhance moral action?
Another view
Some see genuine goodness in simple, conventional behavior.
More from Oscar Wilde
There is no sin except stupidity.
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Permalink to quote #43 As long as war is regarded as wicked, it will always have its fascination. When it is looked upon as vulgar, it will cease to be popular.
Permalink to quote #40
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