Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Whatever is done without ostentation, and without the people being witnesses of it, is, in my opinion, most praiseworthy: not that the public eye should be entirely avoided, for good actions desire to be placed in the light; but notwithstanding this, the greatest theater for virtue is conscience.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Genuine actions are praiseworthy when done privately, as true virtue is recognized by one's own conscience rather than by public attention.
This quote by Cicero emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds without seeking public recognition or approval. It suggests that while it's natural for virtuous acts to be shared and acknowledged, the true essence of virtue lies in the individual's conscience and integrity. Performing actions for their own sake, rather than for the applause of others, is what genuinely defines worthiness and moral character.
Themes
VirtueConscienceGood DeedsHumilityIntegrity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of selfless service.
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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.
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