A means can be justified only by its end. But the end in…
“A means can be justified only by its end. But the end in its turn needs to be justified.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Means are justified only if the ends are justified, and ends must also be justified.
In simple terms: Means and ends must both be justified.
Key Takeaway
Question the morality of actions and goals.
Themes
ethics
politics
philosophy
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- activism
- strategic planning
Key Concepts
moral justification
instrumental rationality
Questions to Reflect On
- Are your means truly aligned with your ends?
- How do you evaluate the justification of an end?
A Different Perspective
Ends can be rationalized after the fact.