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Ideas and principles that do harm are as a rule, though…

“Ideas and principles that do harm are as a rule, though not always, cloaks for evil passions.” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“Ideas and principles that do harm are as a rule, though not always, cloaks for evil passions.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Harmful ideas often hide behind seemingly neutral principles, masking selfish motives.

In simple terms: Bad ideas can disguise evil intentions.

Key Takeaway

Question motives behind ideas.

Themes

ethics politics psychology

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political debate
  • policy making
  • media analysis
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

moral philosophy cognitive bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • What principles do you accept without scrutiny?
  • How can you detect hidden agendas?
A Different Perspective

Not all principles are harmful; context matters.

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