Final answer:
The quotation emphasizes the deep joy and satisfaction found in doing good, reflecting values in both Confucian and Daoist thought. It underscores the concept that ethical well-being leads to true happiness, encouraging personal moral development and societal contribution as measures of success.
Step-by-step explanation:
The quotation "For it is the greatest possible pleasure to a mind rightly informed, properly cultivated, to have done good" reflects a profound philosophical sentiment regarding the intrinsic reward of benevolence. Such a maxim suggests that a well-cultivated mind, aware of ethical principles and informed by knowledge and wisdom, finds its utmost satisfaction in acts of goodness and kindness. This echoes the philosophical views on the nature of virtue and the importance of moral education, emphasizing the deep-seated joy that stems from contributing positively to the lives of others and society at large. The sentiment aligns with the tenets of Confucianism, where moral rectitude and altruism are pivotal, and also resonates with Daoist ideals that advocate simplicity and harmony with the natural world. In a world where ethical well-being and social flourishing are often clouded by various distractions and misconceptions, such a statement serves as a reminder of the fundamental human capacity to do good and experience profound happiness through moral conduct. It challenges us to consider the contentment derived from benevolence as a measure of true success and a source of deep personal fulfillment.