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There is a very real evil consequent on ascribing…

“There is a very real evil consequent on ascribing supernatural origin to the received maxilms of morality. That origin consecrates the whole of them and protects them from being discussed or criticized.” quote by John Stuart Mill
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“There is a very real evil consequent on ascribing supernatural origin to the received maxilms of morality. That origin consecrates the whole of them and protects them from being discussed or criticized.”

John Stuart Mill

About This Quote

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

Attributing moral rules to supernatural sources shields them from critique, preventing moral progress.

In simple terms: Supernatural moral claims block criticism.

Key Takeaway

Question moral origins.

Themes

critical thinking secularism ethics

Mood

analytical skeptical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • legal reform
  • educational curricula
  • religious dialogue
  • political debate

Key Concepts

philosophical analysis public policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What moral principles could be re‑examined today?
  • How do you balance tradition with rational critique?
A Different Perspective

Some may view secular critique as disrespectful.

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