Man Quotes
Whenever a man does a thoroughly stupid thing, it is always from the noblest motives.
"Whenever a man does a thoroughly stupid thing, it is always from the noblest motives."— Oscar Wilde
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Meaning of this quote
Good intentions do not automatically make an action sensible or beneficial. Lord Henry's cynical formulation invites scrutiny of how noble explanations can excuse poor judgment.
Key takeaway:
Examine likely consequences as well as the intention behind an action.
Origin of the quote
The Picture of Dorian Gray, Chapter VI, Lord Henry discussing Dorian's proposed marriage.
Who actually said this?
VerifiedThe sentence appears in the novel's dialogue. Its sweeping claim is part of Lord Henry's provocative wit, not an established rule about every foolish act.
