If I have to remove one to save ten, I'll do it in a…
“If I have to remove one to save ten, I'll do it in a heartbeat. If I have to waterboard somebody to save a thousand people, I'll do it in a heartbeat.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Willingness to sacrifice many for a few, endorsing extreme utilitarian decisions.
In simple terms: Save ten by removing one, waterboard to save many.
Key Takeaway
Consider moral costs of utilitarian choices.
Themes
ethics
utilitarianism
sacrifice
Mood
conflicted
serious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- war decisions
- public health
- resource allocation
Key Concepts
philosophy
policy
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- Is ends‑justify‑the‑means valid?
- What limits should exist?
A Different Perspective
Human rights may be violated.