Add Quote by David Hume
“All ills spring from some vice, either in ourselves or others; and even many of our diseases proceed from the same origin. Remove the vices; and the ills follow. You must only take care to remove all the vices. If you remove part, you may render the matter worse. By banishing vicious luxury, without curing sloth and an indifference to others, you only diminish industry in the state, and add nothing to men's charity or their generosity.”
About This Quote
Source Book: An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals, 1751
Illnesses arise from personal or societal vices; eliminating all vices prevents disease, but partial removal can worsen conditions.
In simple terms: Vices cause illness; removing them cures.
Key Takeaway
Eliminate all harmful habits fully.
Themes
morality
health
society
virtue
policy
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal health
- public health policy
- government regulation
- community education
Key Concepts
Ethics
public health
social determinants of health
Questions to Reflect On
- What vices are most harmful today?
- How can societies address systemic vices?
A Different Perspective
Partial reforms may backfire if not comprehensive.
