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Drunkenness is not only the cause of crime, but it is…

“Drunkenness is not only the cause of crime, but it is crime; and if any encourage drunkenness for the sake of the profit derived from the sale of drink, they are guilty of a form of moral assassination as criminal as any that has ever been practiced by the braves of any country or of any age.” quote by John Ruskin
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“Drunkenness is not only the cause of crime, but it is crime; and if any encourage drunkenness for the sake of the profit derived from the sale of drink, they are guilty of a form of moral assassination as criminal as any that has ever been practiced by the braves of any country or of any age.”

John Ruskin

About This Quote

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

Profiting from encouraging drunkenness is morally equivalent to committing a grave crime; exploitation for profit is a form of moral assassination.

In simple terms: Exploiting people’s vices for profit is a serious moral crime.

Key Takeaway

Avoid supporting harmful habits for monetary gain.

Themes

ethics social responsibility exploitation

Mood

critical concerned

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • advertising alcohol
  • policy making
  • business ethics
  • community health initiatives

Key Concepts

philosophy law public health

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies deter profit‑driven promotion of harmful behaviors?
  • What responsibilities do businesses have toward public health?
A Different Perspective

Economic incentives may conflict with ethical standards, making enforcement difficult.

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