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Would you agree," he said, "that man's sole duty is to…

“Would you agree," he said, "that man's sole duty is to produce as much pleasure as possible?" "Only if the pleasure produced is equivalent to the diminution of pain." My father crossed his arms. "And only if one man's pleasure is as important as any other's.” quote by Susan Hubbard
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““Would you agree," he said, "that man's sole duty is to produce as much pleasure as possible?" "Only if the pleasure produced is equivalent to the diminution of pain." My father crossed his arms. "And only if one man's pleasure is as important as any other's.””

Susan Hubbard

About This Quote

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

The quote explores utilitarian ethics, suggesting that moral duty is to maximize pleasure while minimizing pain, treating each person's happiness equally.

In simple terms: Moral duty is to maximize pleasure and minimize pain equally for everyone.

Key Takeaway

Consider others' happiness as much as your own.

Themes

ethics utilitarianism equality

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • healthcare decisions
  • business ethics
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

moral philosophy consequentialism human dignity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we measure pleasure versus pain?
  • Can all pleasures be compared equally?
A Different Perspective

Balancing pleasure and pain can be subjective and culturally variable.

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