"A hypocrite despises those whom he deceives, but has no respect for himself. He would make a dupe of himself too, if he could"

This quote by William Hazlitt talks to the nature of hypocrisy and how it is rooted in an absence of self-regard. A hypocrite is somebody who pretends to have certain beliefs or values, however in truth does not measure up to them. They will often trick others in order to keep their false image, however they have no regard for themselves. This lack of respect for themselves leads them to be willing to trick even themselves if they could. This quote speaks with the concept that hypocrisy is a kind of self-deception, which it is rooted in an absence of pride. It is a suggestion that we must aim to be truthful with ourselves and others, and to have respect for ourselves and our beliefs.