Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Few are those who wish to be endowed with virtue rather than to seem so.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Many people prefer to appear virtuous rather than to truly possess virtue.
This quote by Cicero highlights the human tendency to prioritize outward appearances over genuine traits, particularly virtue. It suggests that a significant number of individuals may seek to be perceived as good or moral rather than actually striving to embody these qualities in their actions and decisions, reflecting a deeper commentary on human nature and societal values.
Themes
VirtueAppearanceHuman NatureAuthenticityMorality
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on ethics, one might quote this to emphasize the importance of true moral character over mere reputation.
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.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
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
Similar quotes
We boast of our freedom, and we have your example for it. We talk the language we have always heard you speak.
Samuel AdamsRead
My films are expressive of a culture that has had the possibility of attaining material fulfillment while at the same time finding itself unable to accomplish the simple business of conducting human lives. We have been sold a bill of goods as a substitute for life. What is needed is reassurance in human emotions; a re-evaluation of our emotional capacities.
John CassavetesRead
If we make anything that lasts, it outlives us.
Jeanette WintersonRead
One of our worst traits in journalism is that when we have a narrative in our minds, we often plug in anecdotes that confirm it. Thus we managed to portray President Gerald Ford, a first-rate athlete, as a klutz.
Nicholas KristofRead
We must never lose sight of the fact that the law has a moral foundation, and we must never fail to ask ourselves not only what the law is, but what the law should be.
Anthony KennedyRead
The love of one's country is a splendid thing. But why should love stop at the border?
Pablo CasalsRead