Capable Quote by Edmund Burke
“God has sometimes converted wickedness into madness; and it is to the credit of human reason that men who are not in some degree mad are never capable of being in the highest degree wicked.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Thoughts on the Cause of the Present Discontents, 1790
Human reason can rationalize evil, but extreme wickedness often requires a degree of madness.
In simple terms: Reason can justify evil.
Key Takeaway
Beware rationalizations that excuse immoral actions.
Themes
morality
reason
madness
Mood
critical
philosophical
Type
thought‑provoking
analytical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- legal judgments
- social critique
- personal ethics
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you justified a questionable act?
- How does madness influence moral judgment?
A Different Perspective
Rationalization may obscure accountability.
![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
