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[...]what we are talking about are negative…

“[...]what we are talking about are negative obligations--the duty not to cause harm.” quote by Mark Gibney
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““[...]what we are talking about are negative obligations--the duty not to cause harm.””

Mark Gibney

About This Quote

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

It asserts that moral duty includes refraining from causing harm, not just performing positive acts.

In simple terms: Do not cause harm.

Key Takeaway

Avoid actions that hurt others.

Themes

ethics responsibility non‑maleficence

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • business decisions
  • medical treatment
  • environmental policy
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

moral philosophy duty theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • When might causing no harm be impossible?
  • How do you balance non‑harm with other duties?
A Different Perspective

Harmlessness may conflict with competing interests or required interventions.

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