Authority Quote by Henepola Gunaratana
![“[M]orality is not a ritualistic obedience to a code of behavior imposed by an external authority. It is rather a healthy habit pattern that you have consciously and voluntarily chosen to impose upon yourself because you recognize its superiority to your present behavior.” quote by Henepola Gunaratana](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cb8/henepola-gunaratana-10550_authority_m-orality-is-not-a-ritualistic-obedience_1007782.jpg)
“[M]orality is not a ritualistic obedience to a code of behavior imposed by an external authority. It is rather a healthy habit pattern that you have consciously and voluntarily chosen to impose upon yourself because you recognize its superiority to your present behavior.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Mindfulness in Plain English, 1994
Morality stems from personal choice and self‑improvement, not from external rules.
In simple terms: Morality is a self‑chosen habit, not imposed law.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate ethical habits voluntarily.
Themes
ethics
self‑growth
autonomy
Mood
reflective
inspired
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- education
- leadership
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
habit formation
conscious choice
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide which habits are truly superior?
- What role should community standards play in personal morality?
A Different Perspective
May overlook societal norms that protect vulnerable groups.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)