Meaning: The quote "It is better to use fair means and fail, than foul and conquer" by Sallust reflects the ethical and moral values that the Roman historian believed in. Gaius Sallustius Crispus, commonly known as Sallust, was a Roman historian, politician, and moralist who lived during the late Roman Republic. He is renowned for his historical works, particularly his monographs on the Catiline conspiracy and the Jugurthine War, which provide valuable insights into the political and moral decline of the Roman Republic.

Sallust's quote emphasizes the importance of integrity and ethical conduct, even in the face of failure. It suggests that achieving success through deceit, dishonesty, or unethical behavior is ultimately not as valuable or honorable as failing while maintaining one's moral principles. This sentiment aligns with Sallust's broader criticism of the moral decay and corruption within Roman society during his time.

The quote also highlights the timeless struggle between ethics and expediency, a theme that has been explored by philosophers, leaders, and thinkers throughout history. Sallust's view on the superiority of fair means over foul ones resonates with the teachings of various ethical and moral frameworks, including virtue ethics, deontology, and utilitarianism. It underscores the enduring relevance of ethical conduct and moral integrity in human endeavors, whether in politics, business, or personal relationships.

Sallust's own life and political career provide context for his advocacy of fair means over foul ones. As a participant in the political tumult of the late Roman Republic, Sallust witnessed and experienced the moral degradation and political corruption that plagued the Roman elite. His disillusionment with the prevailing ethos of opportunism and moral laxity is evident in his writings, where he often laments the decline of traditional Roman virtues and the rise of self-serving ambition.

In his historical works, Sallust portrays individuals who exemplify both the virtue of integrity and the vice of moral compromise. His portrayal of figures such as Cato the Younger, who embodied stoic virtue and uncompromising integrity, stands in contrast to the unscrupulous and ambitious characters whose actions contributed to the erosion of the Republic's moral fabric. Through his writings, Sallust sought to caution and admonish his contemporaries about the perils of sacrificing moral principles for the sake of personal gain or power.

The quote can also be interpreted as a call to prioritize the means by which one pursues their goals, rather than solely focusing on the outcomes. It suggests that the manner in which success is achieved holds intrinsic value and significance, and that the ends do not justify the means if those means are unethical or dishonorable. This ethical stance aligns with the concept of ethical absolutism, which asserts that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their consequences.

In contemporary society, Sallust's quote continues to resonate, serving as a reminder of the enduring relevance of ethical behavior and moral integrity. It finds application in various spheres, including business ethics, political conduct, and personal decision-making. The quote encourages individuals to prioritize ethical conduct and integrity, even in the face of adversity or the allure of expedient shortcuts.

In conclusion, Sallust's quote "It is better to use fair means and fail, than foul and conquer" encapsulates his belief in the primacy of ethical conduct and moral integrity. It reflects his critique of the moral decay within Roman society and serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring value of ethical behavior, regardless of the outcome. Sallust's advocacy for fair means over foul ones continues to resonate as a poignant ethical principle that transcends time and culture.