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About this quote

What does it mean?
True virtue does not need to defend itself or prove its worth to others.
In plain terms
Good people do not need to explain why they are good.
What can you take from it?
Actions speak louder than explanations of moral character.

Where it applies

  • personal conduct
  • leadership
  • ethics

Putting it to work

  • building trust
  • avoiding self promotion

Questions to consider

  • Why do good people feel the need to justify themselves?
  • What proves character?

Another view

Sometimes people must explain their actions to correct misunderstandings.

More from Voltaire

  1. C'est un poids bien pesant qu'un nom trop tot fameux.

    Permalink to quote #2
  2. L'homme est libre au moment qu'il veut l'etre.

    Permalink to quote #3
  3. Les mortels sont egaux; ce n'est pas la naissance, C'est la seule vertu qui fait la difference.

    Permalink to quote #4

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