"Though ambition in itself is a vice, yet it is often the parent of virtues"
- Quintilian
About this Quote
This quote by Quintilian speaks to the idea that ambition, while it can be an unfavorable trait, can likewise be the source of favorable qualities. Ambition can be a vice when it is driven by selfishness or greed, causing unethical behavior. However, aspiration can also be a positive force when it is used to pursue honorable goals and to strive for excellence. It can be the source of virtues such as hard work, commitment, and perseverance. Aspiration can be an effective motivator, pushing us to reach our goals and to strive for greatness. It can also be the source of imagination and development, inspiring us to think outside the box and to come up with originalities. Eventually, aspiration can be a double-edged sword, and it is up to us to use it for great.
"Me only have one ambition, y'know. I only have one thing I really like to see happen. I like to see mankind live together - black, white, Chinese, everyone - that's all"
"The average Hollywood film star's ambition is to be admired by an American, courted by an Italian, married to an Englishman and have a French boyfriend"