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About this quote

What does it mean?
Gladstone condemns selfishness as the most harmful trait affecting humanity.
In plain terms
Being selfish is the worst problem humans have.
What can you take from it?
Avoid selfishness to improve society.

Where it applies

  • moral reflection
  • character development

Putting it to work

  • cultivate empathy
  • prioritize community good

Questions to consider

  • Is selfishness entirely negative?
  • How do we balance self and others?

Another view

Self-interest can also drive progress and innovation.

More from William Ewart Gladstone

  1. But let the working man be on his guard against another danger. We live at a time when there is a disposition to think that the Government ought to do this and…

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  2. ...I venture on assuring you that I regard the design formed by you and your friends with sincere interest, and in particular wish well to all the efforts you …

    Permalink to quote #30
  3. All the world over, I will back the masses against the classes.

    Permalink to quote #27

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