Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Ill gotten gains will be ill spent.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Unfairly or dishonestly acquired wealth will ultimately lead to poor outcomes.
This quote by Cicero highlights the principle that wealth obtained through unethical means often leads to negative consequences, suggesting a moral reflection on the source of one's resources. It implies that ill-gotten gains lack true value and can cause harm, as the integrity behind earning wealth plays a crucial role in how it is utilized and appreciated.
Themes
WealthMoralityConsequencesIntegrityEthics
In practice
Example use cases
During a financial seminar discussing the importance of ethical business practices.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes βThose wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
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Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
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