Virtue, Self Interest, and Domination

Supposedly, Adam Smith said: "Virtue is more to be feared than vice, because its excesses are not subject to the regulation of conscience."

Modern history certainly bears that out. From Robespierre to the Taliban, rarely does one find more bloody crimes than those committed in the name of salvation. From Alexander to Pizarro those who lacked moral vision, could always justify violence in terms of courage.

That is a problem for those of us who are motviated by morality. How can we protect ourselves from becoming self-righteous and inconsiderate?