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What is called generosity is usually only the vanity of giving; we enjoy the vanity more than the thing given.
Francois De La Rochefoucauld
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Interpretation

What this quote means

True generosity often comes from a desire for self-importance rather than the act of giving itself.

In this quote, Francois De La Rochefoucauld suggests that what we often perceive as generosity is masked by our own pride and the pleasure we derive from being seen as generous. This reflection prompts us to question the authenticity of our altruistic actions, indicating that our motivations may be more self-serving than we realize. It urges us to contemplate whether our acts of giving are sincere or if they are merely a means to boost our self-esteem.

Themes

GenerosityVanityGivingSelfishnessAltruism

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about the true motivations behind charitable actions.

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Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.
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Conceit causes more conversation than wit.
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The defects and faults of the mind are like wounds in the body; after all imaginable care has been taken to heal them up, still there will be a scar left behind, and they are in continual danger of breaking the skin and bursting out again.
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To understand matters rightly we should understand their details; and as that knowledge is almost infinite, our knowledge is always superficial and imperfect.
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