If the situation was such that there was only one learned…
“If the situation was such that there was only one learned lama or genuine practitioner alive, a person whose death would cause the whole of Tibet to lose all hope of keeping its Buddhist way of life, then it is conceivable that in order to protect that one person it might be justified for one or 10 enemies to be eliminated if there was no other way.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Suggests that protecting a single vital figure may justify harming many, highlighting ethical dilemmas in extreme preservation.
In simple terms: Protecting a key figure might justify extreme actions.
Key Takeaway
Weigh the moral cost of protecting cultural heritage.
Themes
ethics
preservation
extreme measures
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political conflict
- cultural heritage protection
- leadership succession
- wartime decisions
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
cultural survival
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it ever right to sacrifice many for one?
- What alternatives exist to protect cultural continuity?
A Different Perspective
Justifying harm for a cause can erode moral authority.