Evil, as evil, can never be chosen; and though evil is…
“Evil, as evil, can never be chosen; and though evil is often the effect of our own choice, yet we never desire it but under the appearance of an imaginary good.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Evil is not a true choice; it appears as a misguided pursuit of imagined good, stemming from our own decisions.
In simple terms: Evil seems like a false good we choose.
Key Takeaway
Misguided intentions produce evil.
Themes
morality
choice
illusion
human nature
Mood
thoughtful
cautionary
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- ethical decision‑making
- political policy
- personal moral reflection
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
cognitive bias
Practical Applications
- question underlying motives
- seek objective criteria
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a perceived good actually harmful?
- How can we recognize the 'imaginary good' before acting?