Chapter 75
When Good Intentions Go Wrong
OF LIBERTY OF CONSCIENCE ‘Tis usual to see good intentions, if carried on without moderation, push men on to very vicious effects. In this dispute which has at this time engaged France in a civil war, the better and the soundest cause no doubt is that which maintains the ancient religion and government of the kingdom. Nevertheless, amongst the good men of that party (for I do not speak of those who only make a pretence of it, either to execute their own particular revenges or to gratify their avarice, or to conciliate the favour of princes, but of those…
Public-domain chapter text, formatted for reading.
Critical Thinking Exercise
The Zealotry Self-Check
Think of a cause or principle you feel strongly about—at work, in your family, or in your community. Write down three specific actions you've taken recently in support of this cause. For each action, honestly assess: Did this move me closer to my actual goal, or did it just make me feel righteous? Did it bring people together or push them away?
Consider:
- •Focus on outcomes, not intentions—what actually happened as a result of your actions?
- •Consider whether you're fighting for the cause itself or for the feeling of being right
- •Look for signs that your passion might be creating the opposite of what you want
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when you were absolutely certain you were right about something important, but your approach backfired. What would you do differently now, knowing what Montaigne teaches about the dangers of unchecked zeal?
Master this chapter. Complete your experience
Purchase the complete book to access all chapters and support classic literature
Available in paperback, hardcover, and e-book formats
You Might Also Like
Lessons from The Essays of Montaigne
Theme-by-theme analyses that connect this book to modern life skills.
Deep diving the literary elements.
