Never open the door to a lesser evil, for other and…
“Never open the door to a lesser evil, for other and greater ones invariably slink in after it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Avoiding minor evils invites greater ones; confronting small problems prevents larger threats.
In simple terms: Don’t let small bad things slip, or worse will follow.
Key Takeaway
Address issues early.
Themes
prudence
risk management
ethics
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
ethical
practical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- business negotiations
- political policy
- environmental regulation
Key Concepts
strategic foresight
moral philosophy
decision making
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it wiser to tolerate a small flaw?
- What criteria decide when to act?
A Different Perspective
Sometimes confronting minor evils can cause unnecessary conflict.