To prefer evil to good is not in human nature; and when a…
“To prefer evil to good is not in human nature; and when a man is compelled to choose one of two evils, no one will choose the greater when he might have the less.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Choosing the lesser evil is natural; people avoid the greater evil when a lesser option exists.
In simple terms: People prefer the lesser evil.
Seek the lesser evil when faced with bad choices.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political dilemmas
- personal ethics
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What determines a “lesser” evil?
- Can true good be achieved without compromise?
Sometimes the lesser evil still causes harm.