It is a governing principle of nature, that the agency…
“It is a governing principle of nature, that the agency which can produce most good, when perverted from its proper aim, is most productive of evil. It behooves the well-intentioned, therefore, vigorously to watch the tendency of even their most highly prized institutions, since that which was established in the interests of the right, may so easily become the agent of the wrong.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Powerful institutions can become harmful when misused; vigilance is required to keep good intentions aligned
In simple terms: Good institutions can turn evil if perverted
Key Takeaway
Monitor and correct institutional drift
Themes
ethics
power
corruption
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- corporate governance
- nonprofit oversight
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
institutional theory
social responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can well-intentioned groups detect hidden bias?
- What mechanisms ensure accountability?
A Different Perspective
Complex systems may resist simple monitoring