Appearance Quote by Benjamin Franklin
“Evil, as evil, can never be chosen; and though evil is often the effect of our own choice, yet we never desire it but under the appearance of an imaginary good.”
About This Quote
Evil is not a true choice; it appears as a misguided pursuit of imagined good, stemming from our own decisions.
In simple terms: Evil seems like a false good we choose.
Key Takeaway
Misguided intentions produce evil.
Themes
morality
choice
illusion
human nature
Mood
thoughtful
cautionary
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- ethical decision‑making
- political policy
- personal moral reflection
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
cognitive bias
Practical Applications
- question underlying motives
- seek objective criteria
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a perceived good actually harmful?
- How can we recognize the 'imaginary good' before acting?
