Summary
This quote suggests that dealing with guilt or remorse internally (a bad conscience) is easier than dealing with the consequences of one's actions on how others perceive them (a bad reputation). While a bad conscience may cause inner turmoil and can be burdensome, it can often be hidden or suppressed. However, a bad reputation, once established, can have long-term and widespread effects on a person's relationships, opportunities, and overall social standing. Overall, this quote highlights the importance of maintaining a good reputation and the difficulty of recovering from a tarnished one.