Character Quote by Bertrand Russell
““To preach an altruistic morality appears to me somewhat useless, because it will appeal only to those who already have altruistic desires. But to preach rationality is somewhat different, since rationality helps us to realize our own desires on the whole, whatever they may be.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Why I Am Not a Christian, 1927
Preaching altruism only reaches those already altruistic, while rationality can guide everyone to understand and fulfill their desires.
In simple terms: Rationality benefits all, altruism only some.
Key Takeaway
Promote reason over moral preaching.
Themes
reason
ethics
desire
philosophy
education
Mood
inquisitive
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- schools
- public policy
- personal development
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
critical thinking
human motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- Can reason fully capture human motivation?
- How to integrate empathy with rational decisions?
A Different Perspective
Rationality may ignore emotional aspects of desire.
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
