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Upon the principles of reason, the good of many is…

“Upon the principles of reason, the good of many is preferable to the good of a few or of one; a lasting good is to be preferred before a temporary, the public before the private.” quote by Mary Astell
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“Upon the principles of reason, the good of many is preferable to the good of a few or of one; a lasting good is to be preferred before a temporary, the public before the private.”

Mary Astell

About This Quote

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

Prioritizing the collective good over individual or minority interests leads to lasting societal benefit.

In simple terms: Common good beats personal gain.

Key Takeaway

Seek policies that benefit many.

Themes

ethics politics social welfare

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • legislation
  • community planning
  • public health initiatives

Key Concepts

utilitarianism public good

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we protect minorities while promoting the common good?
  • When should individual rights yield to collective needs?
A Different Perspective

Balancing minority rights with majority benefit can be complex.

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