Setting aside the fact that coercion and guidance can never succeed in producing virtue, they manifestly tend to weaken power; and what are tranquil order and outward morality without true moral strength and virtue? Moreover, however great an evil immorality may be, we must not forget that it is not without its beneficial consequences. It is only through extremes that men can arrive at the middle path of wisdom and virtue.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Coercion cannot create virtue and may weaken moral strength; sometimes immorality's extremes help people find wisdom.
- In plain terms
- Forcing people to be good doesn't work, and mistakes can teach valuable lessons.
- What can you take from it?
- Avoid coercion; allow natural moral growth through experience.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can virtue be taught or must it be lived?
- When do mistakes become beneficial lessons?
Another view
Relying on extremes for growth risks causing unnecessary harm.
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