Able Quote by David Benatar
“Coming into existence is always bad for those who come into existence. In other words, although we may not be able to say of the never-existent that never existing is good for them, we can say of the existent that existence is bad for them.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Better to Be Dead Than Sad, David Benatar, 2006
Existence is a burden; non-existence spares suffering.
In simple terms: Being alive brings harm.
Consider the value of life.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- medical ethics
- end‑of‑life decisions
- parenting choices
- philosophical counseling
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it possible to find meaning despite suffering?
- Can we justify ending lives to prevent pain?
Non‑existence may also deny potential joys.