A goal in (and of) itself

[Bhnhelis]

Can anybody tell me what's the difference between the phrases *a goal in itself* and *a goal in and of itself* ?? Please give some example sentences too.

Thank's in advance!

[Cerberus™]

That is a difficult question; I think many people use both expressions indiscriminately, but is that wrong?

Perhaps "is a goal in itself" is used simply in contrast with "is a means to x"; whereas "is a goal in and of itself" suggests some sort of vicious circle, a thing being its own goal. That's how I should take it. As in "power is a goal in and of itself: the main reason why you would have it is to gain even more power".