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About this quote

What does it mean?
Those lacking moral courage often rely on trickery to survive or succeed.
In plain terms
Cowardice leads people to use deceit instead of bravery.
What can you take from it?
True strength comes from courage, not manipulation.

Where it applies

  • conflict resolution
  • leadership assessment
  • ethical dilemmas

Putting it to work

  • evaluate motives in negotiation
  • reflect on personal courage

Questions to consider

  • When have you chosen cunning over courage?
  • Is cunning always a sign of weakness?

Another view

Some argue cunning is a neutral tool used by both strong and weak.

More from William Blake

  1. You never know what is enough unless you know what is more than enough.

    Permalink to quote #75
  2. When thou seest an Eagle, thou seest a portion of Genius; lift up thy head!

    Permalink to quote #77
  3. The tygers of wrath are wiser than the horses of instruction.

    Permalink to quote #74

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