Truth Ought Quote by Henry Sidgwick
““Truthspeaking is only valuable as a means to the preservation of society: only if it be admitted that it is valuable on this ground I should say that it is implied that the preservation of society---or some further end to which this preservation, again, is a means---must be valuable per se, and therefore something at which a rational being, as such, ought to aim. If it be granted that we need not look beyond the preservation of society, the primary ‘dictate of reason' in this case would be ‘that society ought to be preserved': but reason would also dictate that truth ought to be spoken, so far as truthspeaking is recognised as the indispensable or fittest means to this end: and the notion “ought'' as used in either dictate is that which I have been trying to make clear.””
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Essay: The Methods of Ethics, 1874
Truth is valuable because it preserves society; rational beings should aim to preserve society, making truth-speaking a necessary means.
In simple terms: Truth preserves society; rational aim.
Key Takeaway
Speak truth to support societal well‑being.
Themes
ethics
truth
society
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- education
- media reporting
- legal testimony
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
rationalism
Questions to Reflect On
- Is truth always the best means?
- When should truth be withheld?
A Different Perspective
Truth may conflict with other values like privacy.
