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The goal of maximizing the welfare of all may be better…

“The goal of maximizing the welfare of all may be better achieved by an ethic that accepts our inclinations and harnesses them so that, taken as a whole, the system works to everyone's advantage.” quote by Peter Singer
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“The goal of maximizing the welfare of all may be better achieved by an ethic that accepts our inclinations and harnesses them so that, taken as a whole, the system works to everyone's advantage.”

Peter Singer

About This Quote

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

A welfare‑maximizing system should align with human inclinations, using them to benefit everyone collectively.

In simple terms: Align inclinations with collective welfare.

Key Takeaway

Design systems that harness human nature.

Themes

ethics welfare human nature

Mood

thoughtful ethical

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • economics
  • social design

Key Concepts

philosophy public policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can personal inclinations serve the many?
  • What limits this approach?
A Different Perspective

It may ignore conflicts between individual desires and collective good.

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