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Atlas-shrugged Quote by Ayn Rand

“A sin without volition is a slap at morality and an insolent contradiction in terms: that which is outside the possibility of choice is outside the province of morality.” quote by Ayn Rand
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““A sin without volition is a slap at morality and an insolent contradiction in terms: that which is outside the possibility of choice is outside the province of morality.””

Ayn Rand

About This Quote

Source Book: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, 1957

Morality applies only to actions chosen freely; without choice, moral judgment is meaningless.

In simple terms: Morality requires free choice.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the role of volition in ethics.

Themes

ethics free will responsibility

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • legal judgments
  • personal decisions
  • policy making

Key Concepts

moral philosophy volition choice

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it possible to hold someone morally accountable without free will?
  • How do societies enforce norms on involuntary actions?
A Different Perspective

Morality can be debated even when choice is limited.

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