A man should be upright, not kept upright.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "A man should be upright, not kept upright" suggests that true integrity and moral strength must come from within an individual rather than being imposed or maintained by external forces. This statement underscores the importance of personal responsibility and internal moral compass.
In its essence, the quote highlights the difference between genuine character and superficial appearances. An upright man is one who adheres to ethical principles and moral values regardless of external pressures or influences. This internal uprightness is a reflection of one's true character, built on self-discipline, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is right. It implies that true morality is self-sustaining and does not rely on external validation or enforcement.
On the other hand, being "kept upright" suggests a condition where a person's integrity is dependent on external factors—such as laws, societal expectations, or supervision. This kind of uprightness is fragile and superficial, easily compromised when those external supports are removed. It indicates a lack of genuine moral foundation, where the person's actions are dictated by fear of punishment or desire for approval rather than an internalized sense of right and wrong.
The quote, therefore, calls for individuals to cultivate an internal sense of integrity and morality. It encourages self-reflection and personal growth, urging people to develop their own ethical standards and live by them consistently. This internal uprightness is what builds a truly strong and resilient character, capable of withstanding temptations and challenges without faltering.
Moreover, the quote implies that societal change and improvement begin with individuals who embody these principles of internal uprightness. When people are guided by their own ethical standards rather than external enforcement, they contribute to a more just and honest society. Such individuals inspire others through their example, creating a ripple effect that can lead to widespread positive change.
In conclusion, "A man should be upright, not kept upright" is a profound reminder of the importance of internal moral strength. It calls for self-governance and personal integrity, emphasizing that true uprightness must come from within. This internal moral compass is what differentiates authentic character from mere compliance, leading to a more genuine and ethically sound life.
Who said the quote?
The quote "A man should be upright, not kept upright." is often attributed to Marcus Aurelius (Bio / Quotes). Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who ruled from AD 161 until his death in AD 180.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One historical example that reflects the essence of the quote "A man should be upright, not kept upright" is the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. Mandela's journey through the struggle against apartheid in South Africa is a profound illustration of the idea that a person should maintain their integrity and principles through their own inner strength, rather than relying on external forces to uphold their moral character.
Mandela, during his 27 years of imprisonment, did not simply wait for external circumstances to change or for others to "keep him upright." Instead, he consistently embodied his values of justice, equality, and reconciliation, even in the harshest conditions. His uprightness was not dependent on the environment but was a reflection of his inner strength and commitment to his ideals. Despite the inhumane treatment he endured, Mandela’s resolve and ethical stance remained unshaken, demonstrating that true integrity comes from within.
When Mandela was finally released from prison and later became the President of South Africa, his leadership style continued to embody this principle. He did not rely on the authority of his office alone to guide his actions but remained true to his foundational principles of unity and equality. This personal uprightness and moral consistency helped pave the way for a peaceful transition from apartheid to a democratic South Africa, showing how an individual’s internal uprightness can profoundly influence societal change.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
Applying the quote "A man should be upright, not kept upright" in a real-life scenario can be seen in various personal and professional contexts. Let’s consider the example of a workplace situation involving ethical decision-making.
Imagine an employee named Alex who works for a company facing ethical dilemmas, such as potential fraud or mismanagement. In a situation where the company’s leadership might be tempted to overlook these issues for financial gain or to maintain a certain image, Alex faces a crucial choice.
To embody the quote, Alex would need to rely on his own sense of integrity rather than expecting external pressures or motivations to dictate his actions. He must decide to act according to his own moral compass, even if it means confronting difficult situations or facing backlash. This means not simply adhering to the company’s norms or expectations if they are misaligned with his personal values, but standing firm in his principles regardless of the external environment.
For instance, if Alex discovers that his company is engaging in unethical practices, such as falsifying financial reports, he could choose to report these issues despite the potential risk to his job or career. His decision to uphold ethical standards from within, rather than relying on the external force of his employer’s policies or pressures, demonstrates the quote’s message.
This approach of personal uprightness over being "kept upright" involves making choices based on internal values and principles rather than conforming to potentially unethical external influences. In the long run, this not only upholds personal integrity but can also lead to positive changes within the organization, fostering a culture of transparency and ethical behavior.
Ultimately, the quote emphasizes that integrity is not about waiting for the right circumstances or external validation to act correctly; it’s about being guided by one’s own moral standards and principles, irrespective of external pressures or conditions.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
