Death Quote by David Bentley Hart
““But there is something delusional nonetheless in his optimistic certainty that human beings will wish to choose altruistic values without invoking transcendent principles. They may do so; but they may also wish to build death camps, and may very well choose to do that instead. For””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Beauty of the Infinite, 2019
Optimism about altruism without higher principles is naive; humanity can also choose evil despite hopeful beliefs.
In simple terms: Altruism may need deeper moral foundations.
Key Takeaway
Question underlying moral assumptions.
Themes
morality
optimism
human nature
philosophy
Mood
skeptical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- political
- education
- humanitarian work
Key Concepts
ethical theory
secularism
existential risk
Questions to Reflect On
- What grounds our moral choices?
- Can altruism thrive without spiritual belief?
A Different Perspective
It may ignore historical examples of altruism without transcendence.
