Meaning: The quote "Our actions seem to have their lucky and unlucky stars, to which a great part of that blame and that commendation is due which is given to the actions themselves" by Francois Rochefoucauld reflects the idea that there are external forces or circumstances that influence the outcomes of our actions, and these factors often receive credit or blame for the results, rather than the actions themselves.

Francois Rochefoucauld, a 17th-century French writer and philosopher, is known for his maxims, which are concise and often paradoxical statements about human behavior and society. This particular quote touches on the concept of fate, luck, and the external influences that shape the perception of our actions.

The notion of "lucky and unlucky stars" suggests that there are unseen forces or factors that impact the outcomes of our actions. In many cultures and belief systems, the idea of luck or fate playing a role in human affairs is prevalent. Whether it is the alignment of celestial bodies, the influence of supernatural beings, or simply the unpredictable nature of the universe, the concept of luck and fate has been a recurring theme in human history.

Rochefoucauld's assertion that "a great part of that blame and that commendation is due" to these lucky and unlucky stars implies that people often attribute the success or failure of actions to external circumstances rather than the inherent qualities of the actions themselves. This speaks to the human tendency to look for explanations outside of individual agency when evaluating the outcomes of events. It also suggests that people may not always take full responsibility for the consequences of their actions, instead attributing them to external forces beyond their control.

The quote also touches on the idea of perception and judgment. When commendation or blame is assigned to the "lucky and unlucky stars" rather than the actions themselves, it reflects how people often assess events based on their outcomes rather than the intentions or motivations behind those events. This can lead to a skewed understanding of causality and responsibility, as well as a lack of accountability for one's own actions.

In the context of ethics and morality, Rochefoucauld's quote raises questions about the nature of virtue and vice. If external forces heavily influence the outcomes of our actions, to what extent can individuals be held responsible for their behavior? This concept has been a topic of philosophical debate for centuries, touching on issues of free will, determinism, and moral agency.

Overall, Rochefoucauld's quote invites contemplation on the complex interplay between individual agency and external influences, as well as the ways in which human perception and judgment shape our understanding of actions and their consequences. It serves as a reminder to consider the multifaceted nature of causation and attribution when evaluating the outcomes of human endeavors.