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About this quote

What does it mean?
Always do right; it will please some and astonish others.
In plain terms
Doing what’s right satisfies some people and surprises the rest.
What can you take from it?
Integrity can have unexpected social effects.

Where it applies

  • ethical dilemmas
  • leadership decisions

Putting it to work

  • standing firm on principles
  • communicating ethical choices

Questions to consider

  • How do we define ‘right’ in complex situations?
  • What are the risks of surprising others?

Another view

It assumes a clear definition of ‘right.’

More from Samuel Langhorne Clemens

  1. The Blessings-of-Civilization Trust, wisely and cautiously administered, is a Daisy. There is more money in it, more territory, more sovereignty, and other kin…

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  2. To create man was a fine and original idea; but to add the sheep was a tautology.

    Permalink to quote #41
  3. Honesty is the best policy - when there is money in it.

    Permalink to quote #38

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