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Whatever mitigates the woes, or increases the happiness of…

“Whatever mitigates the woes, or increases the happiness of others, is a just criterion of goodness; and whatever injures society at large, or any individual in it, is a criterion of iniquity.” quote by Oliver Goldsmith
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“Whatever mitigates the woes, or increases the happiness of others, is a just criterion of goodness; and whatever injures society at large, or any individual in it, is a criterion of iniquity.”

Oliver Goldsmith

About This Quote

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

Goodness is measured by how actions help others; harm to society signals immorality.

In simple terms: Help others = good; harm = bad.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize actions that benefit others.

Themes

ethics social responsibility justice

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • community service
  • business ethics
  • personal decisions

Key Concepts

utilitarianism consequentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance personal liberty with societal benefit?
  • When does helping many cause harm to a few?
A Different Perspective

May overlook individual rights for collective good.

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