"If there is one realm in which it is essential to be sublime, it is in wickedness. You spit on a petty thief, but you can't deny a kind of respect for the great criminal"

This quote by Denis Diderot suggests that there is a specific level of appreciation for those who dedicate terrific crimes. He suggests that while petty theft is not to be tolerated, those who commit more major criminal offenses ought to be respected for their aspiration and guts. Diderot implies that it takes a particular level of ability and daring to dedicate a fantastic crime, and that this need to be acknowledged. He likewise recommends that it is important to be "sublime" in wickedness, meaning that a person ought to make every effort to be the very best at whatever they do, even if it is something immoral. This quote indicates that while criminal activity must not be motivated, it should be respected in a specific way.