"There are crimes which become innocent and even glorious through their splendor, number and excess"
- Francois de La Rochefoucauld
About this Quote
This quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld suggests that specific criminal offenses can be seen as acceptable or perhaps admirable when they are done on a grand scale. He implies that the magnitude of the criminal activity can be seen as a sign of power and strength, and that it can be seen as a form of magnificence. This might be translated as a reason for specific kinds of criminal habits, such as war or transformation. It might likewise be seen as a criticism of the concept that power and wealth can be utilized to justify immoral behavior. Ultimately, this quote recommends that the scale of a criminal activity can be seen as an indication of strength and power, which it can be viewed as a form of magnificence. It is up to the specific to decide whether or not this is an appropriate form of habits.