Using vile means to attain worthy ends makes the ends…
““Using vile means to attain worthy ends makes the ends themselves vile. Let them ride on the backs of doctors and medical assistants, but why lie to the people? Why assure the people they are right in their ignorance and that their crude prejudices are sacred truth? Can any splendid future possibly justify this basr lie? Were I a politician, I could never make up my mind to shame my present for the sake of the future, even though I might be promised tons of bliss for a pinch of foul lying.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Using unethical methods to achieve noble goals corrupts the ends and erodes trust, making any future justification hollow.
In simple terms: Immoral means corrupt noble ends, making lies unjustifiable.
Key Takeaway
Choose ethical means over ends.
Themes
ethics
politics
medicine
truth
future
lie
Mood
somber
critical
Type
moral
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- medical practice
- public communication
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
political ethics
public trust
Questions to Reflect On
- Can a good future ever excuse present deception?
- What alternatives exist to achieve goals ethically?
A Different Perspective
Such justifications often ignore immediate harm.