Happiness Quote by Edmund Burke
“The question is not whether you have a right to render people miserable, but whether it is not in your best interest to make them happy.”
About This Quote
Questions the moral justification of causing suffering versus happiness, suggesting self-interest may oppose altruism.
In simple terms: Is causing misery ever justified?
Consider the ethics of personal gain versus others' happiness.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- personal relationships
- leadership
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When does self-interest override compassion?
- Can happiness be imposed?
May ignore systemic factors.