The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
The desire of glory is the last infirmity cast off even by the wise.
Interpretation
The quest for honor and recognition persists even among the wisest individuals.
This quote by Tacitus suggests that the pursuit of glory and recognition is an inherent human trait that even the most knowledgeable cannot shake off completely. It reflects the idea that despite wisdom and understanding, the desire for glory can still influence our actions and decisions, highlighting a fundamental aspect of human nature that transcends intellect and reason.
In practice
You can use this quote in a motivational speech about the nature of ambition in people.
The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
In private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
Great empires are not maintained by timidity.
Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
To agree without understanding is inane. To disagree without understanding is impudent.
Wait for the idea. It may not come at first, but you must be patient, never doubting, waiting in faith. It will come.
Primum non nocerum. (First do no harm)
Perfectionism is self destructive simply because there's no such thing as perfect. Perfection is an unattainable goal.
Unless a variety of opinions are laid before us, we have no opportunity of selection, but are bound of necessity to adopt the particular view which may have been brought forward.
Criticism does not make you smarter or better than the one you are criticizing. In fact, the stuff you are critical of in others is the same stuff you don't like about yourself.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.