Accomplishment Quote by Franz Grillparzer
“Whoever considers morality the main objective of human existence, seems to me like a person who defines the purpose of a clock asnot going wrong. The first objective for a clock, is, however, that it does run; not going wrong is an additional regulative function. If not a watch's greatest accomplishment were not going wrong, unwound watches might be the best.”
About This Quote
Morality is a secondary function of humanity; the primary purpose is to simply exist and operate, like a clock’s main task is to run.
In simple terms: Existence precedes morality
Key Takeaway
Purpose is functional, not ethical
Themes
philosophy
purpose
morality
existentialism
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
argumentative
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- ethical theory courses
Key Concepts
functionality
ethical hierarchy
Practical Applications
- philosophical essays
- lecture series
Questions to Reflect On
- Is a purely functional purpose sufficient?
- Can morality be separated from existence?
A Different Perspective
Some argue morality is integral to human meaning, not an optional add‑on.
