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A great man does not seek applause or place; he seeks for truth; he seeks the road to happiness, and what he ascertains, he gives to others.
Robert Green Ingersoll
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Interpretation

What this quote means

A true great man values truth and happiness over recognition, sharing his discoveries with others.

This quote emphasizes the importance of genuine pursuits in life, suggesting that a truly great individual is not motivated by fame or accolades, but rather by a quest for truth and happiness. By seeking these higher ideals, such a person contributes to the well-being of others, reflecting the selfless nature of true greatness.

Themes

GreatnessTruthHappinessSelflessnessGiving

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about the importance of selfless actions.

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In all ages the people have honored those who dishonored them. They have worshiped their destroyers; they have canonized the most gigantic liars, and buried the great thieves in marble and gold. Under the loftiest monuments sleeps the dust of murder.
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I believe that there is something far nobler than loyalty to any particular man. Loyalty to the truth as we perceive it - loyalty to our duty as we know it - loyalty to the ideals of our brain and heart - is, to my mind, far greater and far nobler than loyalty to the life of any particular man or God. . . .
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Quote by Robert Green Ingersoll | QuoteProject