Of two evils, it is perhaps less injurious to society…
“Of two evils, it is perhaps less injurious to society, that good doctrine should be accompanied by a bad life, than that a good life should lend its support to a bad doctrine.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A harmful doctrine paired with a bad life may be less damaging than a good life supporting a bad doctrine.
In simple terms: Bad life with bad doctrine can be less harmful than good life supporting bad doctrine.
Key Takeaway
Beware of endorsing harmful ideas, even with good intentions.
Themes
ethics
philosophy
social impact
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- education policy
- leadership decisions
- community building
Key Concepts
moral compromise
ideological risk
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you evaluate the morality of ideas you support?
- What safeguards prevent good intentions from causing harm?
A Different Perspective
Good intentions can unintentionally empower harmful systems.