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Te occidere possunt sed te edere non possunt nefas est."…

“Te occidere possunt sed te edere non possunt nefas est." (Roughly, "They can kill you, but the legalities of eating you are quite a bit dicier.")” quote by David Foster Wallace
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““Te occidere possunt sed te edere non possunt nefas est." (Roughly, "They can kill you, but the legalities of eating you are quite a bit dicier.")””

David Foster Wallace

About This Quote

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

The quote humorously highlights the absurdity of legal versus moral boundaries, suggesting that while death is permissible, cannibalism is not.

In simple terms: Legal limits differ from moral ones.

Key Takeaway

Question legal constraints.

Themes

humor ethics law

Mood

wry thoughtful

Type

satirical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • Debates on law
  • ethical discussions
  • media commentary

Key Concepts

Moral philosophy legal absurdity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions are legally allowed but morally questionable?
  • How do societies draw lines between law and morality?
A Different Perspective

Legal systems may not address all moral dilemmas.

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