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The philosophical conservative is someone willing to pay…

“The philosophical conservative is someone willing to pay the price of other people s suffering for his principles.” quote by E. L. Doctorow
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“The philosophical conservative is someone willing to pay the price of other people s suffering for his principles.”

E. L. Doctorow

About This Quote

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

A conservative may accept others' suffering as a necessary cost for upholding his ideals.

In simple terms: Conservatives may ignore others' pain for principles.

Key Takeaway

Question the moral cost of rigid principles.

Themes

ethics politics humanity

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • activism
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

moral philosophy political ideology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it ever justified to prioritize ideology over human welfare?
  • How does this view affect social cohesion?
A Different Perspective

Overlooks the value of empathy and shared responsibility.

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