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Honour sinks where commerce long prevails.
Oliver Goldsmith
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote suggests that values such as honor diminish in a society focused on commercial gain.

Oliver Goldsmith's quote highlights the idea that excessive focus on commerce and material wealth can lead to the erosion of moral values and honor. In a society where commercial interests dominate, ethical considerations often take a backseat, leading to a culture where integrity and honor suffer and are undervalued. The quote suggests a cautionary perspective on prioritizing financial gain over personal and communal virtues.

Themes

HonorCommerceValuesSocietyMorality

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of ethics in business.

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