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You must not change one thing, one pebble, one grain of…

“You must not change one thing, one pebble, one grain of sand, until you know what good and evil will follow on that act.” quote by Ursula K. Le Guin
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“You must not change one thing, one pebble, one grain of sand, until you know what good and evil will follow on that act.”

Ursula K. Le Guin

About This Quote

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

One should not act without considering the moral consequences, as small actions can lead to significant outcomes.

In simple terms: Consider the impact before acting.

Key Takeaway

Think before you act.

Themes

ethics consequence responsibility morality

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal decisions
  • policy making
  • environmental actions
  • technology deployment

Key Concepts

cause and effect moral foresight

Questions to Reflect On

  • What small actions have had big effects in your life?
  • How do you balance caution with action?
A Different Perspective

It can be paralyzing to over‑analyze.

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