Indebtedness

Famous quotes containing the word indebtedness:

    I believe that no characteristic is so distinctively human as the sense of indebtedness we feel, not necessarily for a favor received, but even for the slightest evidence of kindness; and there is nothing so boorish, savage, inhuman as to appear to be overwhelmed by a favor, let alone unworthy of it.
    Marcus Tullius Cicero (106–43 B.C.)

    A man’s indebtedness ... is not virtue; his repayment is. Virtue begins when he dedicates himself actively to the job of gratitude.
    Ruth Benedict (1887–1948)

    Great indebtedness does not lead to thankfulness, but rather to vengefulness; and when a small favor is not forgotten it turns into a gnawing worm.
    Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900)