In my opinion, he only may be truly said to live and enjoy his being who is engaged in some laudable pursuit, and acquires a name by some illustrious action, or useful art.
SallustRead
A good man would prefer to be defeated than to defeat injustice by evil means.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A virtuous person values ethical principles over winning at any cost.
This quote emphasizes the moral integrity of a good person, suggesting that they would rather face loss or defeat than resort to immoral actions to achieve their goals. It highlights the importance of maintaining honor and justice, even in challenging circumstances, and suggests that the means we use to achieve an end are just as important as the end itself.
Themes
VirtueIntegrityJusticeHonorMoralityDefeat
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about ethics in leadership, one might quote this to emphasize the importance of moral action.
More from Sallust
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He that will be angry for anything will be angry for nothing.
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The glory that goes with wealth is fleeting and fragile; virtue is a possession glorious and eternal.
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Most honorable are services rendered to the State; even if they do not go beyond words, they are not to be despised.
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Small communities grow great through harmony, great ones fall to pieces through discord.
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