Quote by Ambrose Bierce
HYPOCRITE, n. One who, profession virtues that he does not respect secures the advantage of seeming to be what he depises.
Summary
This quote defines a hypocrite as someone who claims to have virtues or moral standards that they do not actually uphold. By doing this, the hypocrite gains the benefit of appearing as a person who condemns qualities or behaviors they secretly engage in. The quote highlights the dissonance between one's public image and their true character, suggesting that hypocrisy is a means to maintain a certain appearance while disregarding their own principles.