Approved Quote by Henri Frederic Amiel
“Righteous ends, thus approved, absolve of guilt the most violent means.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Journal of a Recluse, 1860
Moral justification of violent actions is granted when the goal is deemed righteous, overlooking ethical costs.
In simple terms: Violent means are excused if the end is righteous.
Key Takeaway
Question ends, not means.
Themes
ethics
politics
violence
Mood
conflicted
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- military interventions
- activist protests
- legal judgments
Key Concepts
consequentialism
moral relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the goal truly noble?
- Can violence ever be morally clean?
A Different Perspective
Ends may not truly justify harmful means.
