Because impudence is a vice, it does not follow that modesty is a virtue; it is built upon shame, a passion in our nature, and may be either good or bad according to the actions performed from that motive.

Summary

This quote highlights that simply because impudence or rude behavior is considered a negative trait, it does not automatically deem modesty as a positive virtue. Modesty is rooted in shame, an intrinsic emotion within our nature, and its morality depends on the actions that arise from this feeling. Thus, whether modesty is deemed good or bad is not determined solely by its presence but by the intentions and behaviors it motivates in individuals.

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