The most useful thing about a principle is that it can…
“The most useful thing about a principle is that it can always be sacrificed to expediency.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Principles are useful until practicality forces their abandonment for convenience.
In simple terms: Principles can be set aside for practicality.
Key Takeaway
Balance ideals with practical needs.
Themes
ethics
pragmatism
flexibility
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- business decisions
- political negotiations
- personal dilemmas
- legal strategies
Key Concepts
principle
expediency
moral compromise
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it acceptable to sacrifice a principle?
- What costs arise from frequent compromises?
A Different Perspective
Compromising may erode integrity over time.