The most useful thing about a principle is that it can always be sacrificed to expediency.
W. Somerset MaughamRead
Who among us has any conception of the dimensions of shame that will befall us and our children when one day the veil has fallen from our eyes and the most horrible of crimes...reach the light of day?
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the moral consequences of our actions and the shame that may arise when truth and accountability come to light.
Hans Scholl's quote serves as a profound reminder of the implications of our choices, particularly those that may cause harm to others. It evokes the idea that ignorance and denial can shield us from the truth, but ultimately, the realities of our actions—the 'horrible crimes'—will inevitably be exposed, leading to a collective shame for ourselves and future generations if we fail to confront them.
Themes
ShameTruthConsequencesMoralAccountabilityCrime
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of ethical responsibility in leadership.
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