The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
To show resentment at a reproach is to acknowledge that one may have deserved it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Resentment towards criticism implies an admission of guilt or accountability.
This quote by Tacitus suggests that when a person reacts negatively to criticism, they are inadvertently admitting that there may be some truth to it. Acknowledging reproach can often lead to personal growth, while resentment can hinder self-awareness and development.
Themes
ResentmentReproachAccountabilityGrowthSelf-Awareness
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about personal accountability, this quote could underscore the importance of accepting criticism.
More from Tacitus
All quotes βIn private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
TacitusRead
Great empires are not maintained by timidity.
TacitusRead
Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
TacitusRead
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.
TacitusRead
The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
TacitusRead
Similar quotes
understanding the true nature of instinctive decision making requires us to be forgiving of those people trapped in circumstances where good judgment is imperiled.
Malcolm GladwellRead
The essence of practice is always the same: instead of falling prey to a chain reaction of revenge or self-hatred, we gradually learn to catch the emotional reaction and drop the story lines.
Pema ChodronRead
I made an oath to myself: as long as I live as long as my soul remains in this body I won't deviate from the right way but later I looked to my left and then to my right and I saw our beloved everywhere how could I make a wrong turn?
RumiRead
The lack of wealth is easily repaired but the poverty of the soul is irreplaceable.
Michel De MontaigneRead
More than ever before, we need to learn and apply the principles of economic self-reliance. We do not know when the crisis involving sickness or unemployment may affect our own circumstances. We do know that the Lord has decreed global calamities for the future and has warned and forewarned us to be prepared. For this reason the Brethren have repeatedly stressed a 'back to basics' program for temporal and spiritual welfare.
Ezra Taft BensonRead
If we are all alive ten years hence, let's meet, and see how many of us have got our wishes, or how much nearer we are then than now.
Louisa May AlcottRead