Imitation finds no place at all in morality, and examples…
““Imitation finds no place at all in morality, and examples serve only for encouragement, that is, they put beyond doubt the feasibility of what the law commands, they make visible that which the practical rule expresses more generally, but they can never authorize us to set aside the true original which lies in reason, and to guide ourselves by examples.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Moral examples inspire but cannot replace reason; true law lies in rational principle.
In simple terms: Examples aid but reason rules morality.
Key Takeaway
Ground ethical decisions in rational principles.
Themes
ethics
reason
law
morality
examples
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- legal judgments
- policy making
- personal dilemmas
- educational curricula
- religious teachings
Key Concepts
philosophy
moral theory
rationalism
Questions to Reflect On
- When does intuition complement rational moral judgment?
- How can examples be used without overriding reason?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on reason may ignore emotional context.