That a thing is peculiar; is no argument for its being…
“That a thing is peculiar; is no argument for its being blamable; since the most criminal actions are to a being like man not more unnatural than most of the virtues.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Moral blame is unclear when actions are natural to humans, even if they seem criminal.
In simple terms: Blame is hard when actions are human nature.
Consider context before judging.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legal judgments
- personal conduct
- social norms
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines blameworthy behavior?
- How do we differentiate nature from vice?
Not all harmful acts are intentional.