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Authority Quote by Bertrand Russell

“Humanistic ethics is based on the principle that only humans themselves can determine the criterion for virtue and not an authority transcending us.” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“Humanistic ethics is based on the principle that only humans themselves can determine the criterion for virtue and not an authority transcending us.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Humanistic ethics asserts that only humans can define virtue, rejecting any external authority’s claim to moral standards.

In simple terms: Humans decide virtue, not higher powers.

Key Takeaway

Embrace human‑centered morality.

Themes

ethics humanism autonomy

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • education policy
  • personal decision‑making
  • social reform

Key Concepts

philosophy morality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria should humans use to judge virtue?
  • How do we prevent moral relativism?
A Different Perspective

Human consensus can be biased or oppressive.

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