The means ought to be proportioned to the end; the persons…
“The means ought to be proportioned to the end; the persons from whose agency the attainment of any end is expected ought to possess the means by which it is to be attained.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Means must match the goal; those tasked must have the resources to achieve it.
In simple terms: Resources must align with objectives.
Key Takeaway
Allocate appropriate means to responsible actors.
Themes
leadership
resource allocation
ethics
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- project management
- public policy
- business strategy
- non‑profit planning
Key Concepts
Means‑ends alignment
agency theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure means stay proportional as goals evolve?
- What safeguards prevent misuse of allocated resources?
A Different Perspective
Rigid alignment can ignore flexibility needed in dynamic contexts.