Skip to content

Evil Quote by Aristotle

“We must as second best, as people say, take the least of the evils.” quote by Aristotle
Download Open image
“We must as second best, as people say, take the least of the evils.”

Aristotle

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Nicomachean Ethics, Book I, 350 BC

Choosing the lesser evil is a pragmatic moral compromise when no good options exist.

In simple terms: Pick the lesser evil when forced.

Key Takeaway

Aim for the best possible outcome.

Themes

ethics decision making pragmatism

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • political policy
  • personal dilemmas
  • business ethics

Key Concepts

moral philosophy choice theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is compromise justified?
  • What are long‑term effects?
A Different Perspective

Choosing may erode moral standards.

4.9 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Aristotle

Explore all 1,545 Aristotle quotes

More Evil quotes

Browse all 11,163 Evil quotes