Skip to content

Good and evil Quote by Bertrand Russell

“Has the universe any unity of plan or purpose, or is it a fortuitous concourse of atoms? Is conciousness a permanent part of the universe, giving hope of indefinite growth in wisdom, or is it a transitory accident on a small planet on which life must ultimately become impossible? Are good and evil…” quote by Bertrand Russell
Download Open image
““Has the universe any unity of plan or purpose, or is it a fortuitous concourse of atoms? Is conciousness a permanent part of the universe, giving hope of indefinite growth in wisdom, or is it a transitory accident on a small planet on which life must ultimately become impossible? Are good and evil of importance to the universe or only to man?””

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Philosophy of Logical Atomism, 1918

He questions whether the universe follows a unified plan or is random, and whether consciousness is permanent or accidental, probing the significance of good and evil.

In simple terms: He wonders if the universe is purposeful or random and the role of consciousness.

Key Takeaway

Contemplate the nature of cosmic purpose and consciousness.

Themes

purpose randomness consciousness

Mood

inquisitive philosophical

Type

philosophical speculative

When to use this quote

  • scientific research
  • spiritual practice
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

metaphysics ethics cosmology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you find meaning in randomness?
  • How does consciousness affect your moral view?
A Different Perspective

Answers may remain speculative; personal belief shapes interpretation.

2.1 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Bertrand Russell

Explore all 1,620 Bertrand Russell quotes

More Good and evil quotes

Browse all 1,366 Good and evil quotes