Ability Quote by Hannah Arendt
“If the ability to tell right from wrong should turn out to have anything to do with the ability to think, then we must be able to "demand" its exercise from every sane person, no matter how erudite or ignorant, intelligent or stupid, he may happen to be. Kant in this respect almost alone among the philosophers was much bothered by the common opinion that philosophy is only for the few, precisely because of its moral implications.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Human Condition” by Hannah Arendt, 1958
Moral judgment requires rational thought; everyone, regardless of education, must be expected to exercise ethical reasoning.
In simple terms: Ethics need thinking for all.
Key Takeaway
Encourage critical moral reflection.
Themes
ethics
reason
universality
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- education
- law
- public policy
- personal decisions
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies foster universal moral reasoning?
- What barriers hinder ethical thinking?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all can reason equally well.
