“Shame and its consequent degradation follow the loss of our own good opinion rather than the esteem of others.”
- Source
- How to Succeed
- Date
- 1896
Meaning of “Shame and its consequent degradation follow the loss…”
The sentence places moral injury in losing one’s own considered respect, not merely in losing social approval, making conscience a more important measure than reputation.
Where does it come from?
How to Succeed; the sentence appears in Marden’s discussion of temptation, aspiration, and the damage caused when self-respect is surrendered.