Virtue isn't not wronging others but not wishing to wrong others.
DemocritusRead
If thou suffer injustice, console thyself; the true unhappiness is in doing it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Experiencing injustice is painful, but inflicting it on others is worse.
In this quote, Democritus suggests that while suffering from injustice can be deeply troubling, the true moral failing lies in being the source of that injustice. It highlights the importance of ethical conduct and the inner turmoil that can arise from harming others. This reflection prompts individuals to find solace in their own integrity, even when wronged, emphasizing that our actions define our character more than the wrongs we endure.
Themes
InjusticeSufferingMoralityIntegrityCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about ethical behavior in leadership, one might quote this to highlight the importance of maintaining integrity.
More from Democritus
All quotes βBeautiful objects are wrought by study through effort, but ugly things are reaped automatically without toil.
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One should practice much sense, not much learning.
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Nature and education are somewhat similar. The latter transforms man, and in so doing creates a second nature.
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It is godlike ever to think on something beautiful and on something new.
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The wrongdoer is more unfortunate than the man wronged.
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