The quote emphasizes that practicing virtues leads to genuine happiness, a reality often overlooked in contemporary society. Today, there is a noticeable trend toward valuing selfishness and vanity, which detracts from the significance of moral integrity. This cultural shift may misguide individuals in their pursuit of true fulfillment.

In "Bertie Plays the Blues," Alexander McCall Smith critiques this societal change, encouraging readers to reflect on the importance of virtues. He suggests that reclaiming the understanding of how virtues contribute to happiness could help counteract the prevailing admiration for egocentric behaviors.