Character Quote by Ayn Rand
““Learn to distinguish the difference between errors of knowledge and breaches of morality. An error of knowledge is not a moral flaw, provided you are willing to correct it; only a mystic would judge human beings by the standard of an impossible, automatic omniscience. But a breach of morality is the conscious choice of an action you know to be evil, or a willful evasion of knowledge, a suspension of sight and of thought. That which you do not know, is not a moral charge against you; but that which you refuse to know, is an account of infamy growing in your soul. Make every allowance for errors of knowledge; do not forgive or accept any break of morality.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand, 1957
Distinguish between lacking knowledge, which can be corrected, and moral breaches, which are conscious choices of wrongdoing.
In simple terms: Know vs. choose wrong.
Key Takeaway
Correct errors, reject immoral choices.
Themes
knowledge
morality
responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- education
- legal judgments
- personal growth
- leadership
Key Concepts
epistemology
ethics
willful ignorance
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you correct your mistakes?
- Do you avoid knowing uncomfortable truths?
A Different Perspective
Blind spots can be exploited if ignored.
