Certain Quote by Howard Zinn
“Any humane and reasonable person must conclude that if the ends, however desireable, are uncertain and the means are horrible and certain, these means must not be employed.”
About This Quote
Source Book: A People's History of the United States, 1980
When outcomes are desirable but uncertain and the methods are certain and terrible, those methods should be rejected.
In simple terms: Reject harmful means even for good ends.
Key Takeaway
Never compromise ethics for uncertain goals.
Themes
ethics
means
consequences
political philosophy
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- activism
- policy making
- civil disobedience
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
deontological ethics
consequentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What ethical standards guide your decisions?
- Can uncertain outcomes justify immoral tactics?
A Different Perspective
Means may appear effective but cause irreversible damage.
