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It is a hard thing for a man to be righteous, if the unrighteous man is to have the greater right.
Hesiod
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Interpretation

What this quote means

A righteous person struggles to maintain their morals when faced with a situation where the unjust seem to have more power or advantages.

This quote highlights the moral dilemma faced by individuals who strive to do what is right in a society or situation where those who act unethically appear to thrive or have more influence. It illustrates the challenges of maintaining integrity when surrounded by injustice, encouraging reflection on the nature of righteousness and the societal structures that often favor the unrighteous.

Themes

RighteousnessJusticeMoralityIntegrityUnrighteousness

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about ethics in politics, this quote can illustrate the struggle for integrity.

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