If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true do not say it.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote underscores a moral principle that encourages us to be true to our values and to act with integrity in all situations. This quote is a guide for how we should navigate through life: with honesty, truthfulness, and an unwavering adherence to what is ethically and morally right. The "rightness" of an action may vary from person to person, but it generally speaks to the universal principles of fairness, justice, and respect for others. It's a call to uphold the virtue of honesty in our speech and to avoid disseminating false information. In an era filled with misinformation, this quote is a crucial reminder to exercise discernment in what we say and do. It's about being true to oneself and others, about acting in a way that does not bring harm or deceit. It speaks of personal responsibility and accountability in our actions and words, and of cultivating a character that is consistent and reliable.
Who said the quote?
The quote "If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true do not say it." was said by 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?
The quote, "If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true do not say it," echoes a principle of integrity and moral responsibility that has been emphasized throughout history. One historical example that illustrates this quote is the case of Socrates, the classical Greek philosopher.
Socrates was known for his unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness, often challenging the moral and ethical standards of Athenian society. In 399 BC, Socrates was put on trial for allegedly corrupting the youth of Athens and introducing strange gods. The charges were largely fabricated by those in power who felt threatened by his ideas and his method of questioning everything to expose falsehoods and hypocrisy.
During his trial, Socrates could have saved his life by appealing to the jury with a false confession or by promising to stop his philosophical pursuits. However, he chose not to compromise his principles, stating that it would be wrong to do so. He argued that it was better to suffer wrong than to do wrong, and he refused to say anything that wasn't true, even if it meant facing death. Ultimately, Socrates was sentenced to death, but his legacy endured, becoming a powerful example of moral integrity.
Socrates’ adherence to what he believed was right, despite the consequences, and his refusal to say what he believed was untrue, even in the face of death, vividly illustrates the message of the quote. His life and death demonstrate the importance of upholding truth and righteousness, no matter the personal cost.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In a real-life scenario, this quote can serve as a guiding principle in decision-making, especially in situations where one faces moral dilemmas or ethical challenges. For example, consider a situation in the workplace where you witness a colleague being unfairly blamed for a mistake that was not their fault. The pressure to stay silent or go along with the falsehood might be strong, especially if speaking up could result in personal backlash or conflict with others.
Applying the quote to this situation, the right action would be to not participate in the wrongful blame, even if it means standing against popular opinion. Additionally, if asked about the incident, the quote would advise you to tell the truth, even if it might cause discomfort or tension. By doing what is right and speaking the truth, you not only maintain your integrity but also contribute to a culture of honesty and fairness within your workplace.
In another scenario, imagine being offered a promotion that comes with the expectation that you will engage in unethical practices, such as manipulating data or deceiving clients. The quote reminds you that if something isn't right, you shouldn't do it, regardless of the potential benefits. Refusing to compromise your values for personal gain might seem difficult, but it upholds your moral integrity and sets a positive example for others.
In both examples, the quote guides you to prioritize what is ethically correct and truthful, even when it might be easier or more advantageous to do otherwise. It encourages living with integrity, making choices that align with your values, and fostering trust and respect in your personal and professional relationships.
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.
