Chance Quote by Ayn Rand
“What I want you to understand, is the full evil of those who claim to have become convinced that this earth, by its nature, is a realm of malevolence where the good has no chance to win. Let them check their premises. Let them check their standards of value. Let them check - before they grant themselves the unspeakable license of evil-as-necessity - whether they know what is the good and what are the conditions it requires.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, 1957
The quote urges scrutiny of pessimistic worldviews, demanding that people examine their assumptions about good, evil, and the conditions needed for goodness before justifying harmful actions.
In simple terms: Question assumptions about good and evil before acting.
Key Takeaway
Inspect premises before endorsing harmful actions.
Themes
philosophy
ethics
critical thinking
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- personal decision making
- ethical analysis
- social activism
Key Concepts
Objectivism
moral responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions underlie your view of the world?
- How do you determine what conditions are required for good?
A Different Perspective
If premises are flawed, the conclusion may still be harmful.
