The right to kill: supposing the life of X ... were linked…
“The right to kill: supposing the life of X ... were linked with our own so that the two deaths had to be simultaneous, should we still wish him to die? If with our whole body and soul we desire life and if nevertheless without lying, we can reply 'yes'> then we have the right to kill.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
If our lives were linked, we might claim a right to kill to but moral truth demands honesty over self‑interest.
In simple terms: Killing is never justified by self‑preservation alone.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize truth over desire.
Themes
ethics
life
death
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- war
- medical euthanasia
- self‑defense
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
interdependence
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it ever moral to kill to protect oneself?
- How does honesty limit our rights?
A Different Perspective
Even if linked, killing violates fundamental moral law.