All morality depends upon our sentiments; and when any…
“All morality depends upon our sentiments; and when any action or quality of the mind pleases us after a certain manner we say it is virtuous; and when the neglect or nonperformance of it displeases us after a like manner, we say that we lie under an obligation to perform it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Morality arises from emotional responses; actions feel virtuous when they please us, and obligations arise when neglect causes displeasure.
In simple terms: Morality is sentiment‑driven.
Key Takeaway
Ethics stems from feeling, not reason.
Themes
moral psychology
sentiment theory
virtue ethics
obligation
human nature
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- judging character
- social expectations
- moral education
Key Concepts
emotions
valuation
social norms
Practical Applications
- ethical analysis
- moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do feelings shape our sense of duty?
- Can reason ever override sentiment in moral judgments?