The modern evil, we have said, greatly turns on this: that…
““The modern evil, we have said, greatly turns on this: that people do not see that the exception proves the rule. Thus it may or may not be right to kill a murderer; but it can only conceivably be right to kill a murderer because it is wrong to kill a man.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The paradox shows moral reasoning can be inconsistent, allowing exceptions that undermine universal principles.
In simple terms: Moral rules can be twisted by exceptions.
Key Takeaway
Beware of using exceptions to justify actions.
Themes
ethics
logic
paradoxes
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- legal judgments
- ethical debates
- policy making
- public discourse
- philosophical analysis
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
consistency
rule of law
Questions to Reflect On
- Are exceptions always justified?
- What safeguards prevent misuse?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on exceptions can erode moral standards.