Confucius Quotes

Hast thou virtue? acquire also the graces and beauties of virtue.

There has never been a man mean and at the same time virtuous.

We have next to consider the formal definition of virtue.

Character is in turn the enduring source of virtue. It stands by itself and excites admiration in others. It is not obedience to authority, and while it is often consistent with and reinforced by religious belief, it is not piety.

Righteousness alone can exalt them [America] as a nation. Reader! Whoever thou art, remember this, and in thy sphere practice virtue thyself and encourage it in others.

Be virtuous and you will be eccentric.

Virtue is no empty echo.

As to virtue . . . it is an act of the will, a habit which increases the quantity, intensity and quality of life. It builds up, strengthens and vivifies personality.

There never was a truly great man that was not at the same time truly virtuous.

Virtue is the first title of nobility.

Good character is more to be praised than outstanding talent.

The only word for goodness is goodness, and it is not enough.

There is hardly that person to be found who is not more concerned for the reputation of wit and sense, than honesty and virtue.

Without Virtue there can be no liberty

Is not virtue a negation of becoming?

Virtue is not always amiable.

I have seen men incapable of the sciences, but never any incapable of virtue.

It is the property of a great and good mind to covet, not the fruit of good deeds, but good deeds themselves, and to seek for a good man even after having met with bad men.

Great hearts alone understand how much glory there is in being good.

To be good and disagreeable is high treason against the royalty of virtue.

But courage without conduct is the virtue of a robber, or a tyrant.

Virtue is not the absence of vices or the avoidance of moral dangers; virtue is a vivid and separate thing, like pain or a particular smell.

ATHENA: You wish to be called righteous rather than act right. [...] I say, wrong must not win by technicalities.

Nothing of character is really permanent but virtue and personal worth.

I know no other sign of superiority than Goodness.