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About this quote

What does it mean?
Conscience turns everyone into a self‑centered person.
In plain terms
Our sense of right and wrong makes us think about ourselves.
What can you take from it?
Be aware that moral judgments often reflect personal concerns.

Where it applies

  • ethical debates
  • self‑reflection
  • conflict resolution

Putting it to work

  • checking bias
  • separating ego from ethics

Questions to consider

  • How does your conscience affect your actions?
  • Do you notice ego in moral decisions?

Another view

Conscience can also inspire altruism beyond self‑interest.

More from Oscar Wilde

  1. The basis of optimism is sheer terror.

    Permalink to quote #89
  2. It is the confession, not the priest, that gives us absolution.

    Permalink to quote #91
  3. To be in love is to surpass one's self.

    Permalink to quote #88

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